With May being Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) Prevention Month, Healthy North Coast delivered an empowering webinar on domestic and family violence in primary care.
The webinar, held on 14 May, highlighted that regional NSW has seen a concerning 19% increase in reported domestic assaults over the past five years, with rates in regional communities soaring 30% higher than the statewide average.
With over half of domestic violence reports involving at least one coercive control behaviour, and the upcoming criminalisation of coercive control in NSW starting July 2024, understanding this topic further has never been so important.
Facilitating the event was Healthy North Coast Medical Educator and First Light Healthcare GP, Dr Elizabeth Hicks. Dr Hicks understands firsthand through her practice that too many families are touched by domestic and family violence.
‘It is vitally important to have a well-informed and supportive primary care workforce’, said Liz.
The webinar featured a diverse panel, each member bringing unique perspectives and expertise to the discussion, providing primary care clinicians with invaluable insights.
- Sergeant Nicole Pitt – Domestic Violence Team Leader, Richmond Police District/NSW Police
- Miriam Grotowski – General Practitioner, Smith Street Practice
- Julia Cook – Senior Solicitor, Northern Rivers Community Legal Centre
- Cheryl Coppin – Family Advocacy & Support Service Worker, Northern Rivers Community Legal Centre
- Mali Biggin – Family Advocate & Support Team Worker, Men & Family Centre
- Brooke Maggs – DFV Prevention Manager, Liberty Services
- Courtney Artridge – Project Officer: Sexual Violence Project Fund, Women’s Health NSW
Through case studies, we were able to explore common presentation patterns of domestic and family violence and the journey DFV victims must undertake when navigating the medical, legal and criminal supports available, highlighting the importance of these services within North Coast communities.
Attending the online event were over 75 primary care professionals from a wide range of services and regions, all seeking answers and knowledge on the domestic and family violence crisis we are experiencing. The overwhelming message was clear; attendees were grateful to start the discussion and there is a definite need to keep it going.
The evening concluded with an impactful Q&A discussion, not only fostering dialogue but also empowering individuals to become part of the solution in combating DFV within the community.
Listen back
Would you like to listen to this webinar and other interesting webinars on various topics, on your lunch break or over a coffee? Jump into our Webinar Library to review past webinars. Self-reporting CPD points are available.
Stay up to date with all Healthy North Coast events by bookmarking our Events page and sign up for future localised events and education.