Learning from the Bristol Pregnancy and Domestic Violence Programme

Abstract

This paper reports on an evaluation of the Bristol Pregnancy and Domestic Violence Programme, introduced to support the launch of routine antenatal enquiry for domestic violence. In particular, it focuses on data from a national survey of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) (n=23) and interviews with educationalists (n=10) that assessed the potential impact on education of the introduction of routine antenatal enquiry. Findings suggest that a more systematic approach to domestic violence teaching is needed, focusing on the development of skill acquisition in ‘asking the question’. While HEIs were enthusiastic about their role, professionally developed competencies for pre-registration students are also required to sustain routine enquiry in the longer term. Similarly, existing staff require access to validated programmes within trusts, in association with child protection training to enable existing practitioners to role-model good practice. Where possible, education should be delivered inter-professionally to enable practitioners to establish their role alongside other professionals and agencies, particularly the voluntary sector.