In this episode of The Good GP, host Dr Sean Stevens is joined by Dr Alison Creagh, a GP specialising in women's health and sexual and reproductive health, with over 20 years of experience in this field. Alison sheds light on the issue of intimate partner violence and its impact on the health of those affected, particularly women. She discusses how intimate partner violence differs from domestic violence and emphasises the importance of GPs in addressing this prevalent issue.

Delving into why patients may be reluctant to discuss intimate partner violence with their GPs and offers insights into how GPs can effectively broach this sensitive topic with their patients. Alison provides practical guidance on identifying potential signs of intimate partner violence and outlines gentle and effective approaches for GPs to initiate conversations with their patients.

Furthermore, Alison shares valuable resources and support services available to GPs and patients dealing with intimate partner violence, emphasising the need for confidentiality and sensitivity in handling such cases. Concluding with the discussion on additional learning opportunities and resources for GPs to further their understanding and approach in addressing intimate partner violence.

Resources for Getting Help on Intimate Partner Violence across Australia:

National

1800 RESPECT

Counselling, information and referral for people experiencing abuse, friends and family and health

professionals.

1800 737 732

MensLine Australia

For men with concerns about abuse, including those who are abusive.

1300 789 978

White Ribbon

Lists national helplines available according to needs.

whiteribbon.org.au/helplines

ACT

Domestic Violence Crisis Service

02 6280 0900

NSW

NSW Domestic Violence Line

Counselling and referrals for women experiencing DV

1800 656 463

NSW Department Communities and Justice

Online information source, with quick exit buttons

https://dcj.nsw.gov.au/children-and-families/family-domestic-and-sexual-violence.html

Women’s Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Services

Provide information, advocacy and referrals for women and children, and support accessing restraining orders

legalaid.nsw.gov.au/about-us/our-partners/womens-domestic-violence-court-advocacy-program

NT

Domestic, family and sexual violence page from NT government

Lists local support services according to region

nt.gov.au/law/crime/domestic-family-and-sexual-violence/get-help-for-domestic-family-and-sexual-violence

QLD

DVConnect Womensline

Support, accommodation, counselling and referrals for women experiencing family or domestic violence

1800 811 811

DVConnect Mensline

Support, counselling and referrals for men affected

1800 600 636

Government Domestic & Family Violence page

Information about services available

qld.gov.au/community/getting-support-health-social-issue/support-victims-abuse/domestic-family-violence

Domestic Violence Prevention Centre

Counselling, practical support, safety planning and referrals

07 5532 9000

SA

Domestic and family violence & sexual assault support services

Listings of supports available for specific issues

sa.gov.au/topics/family-and-community/safety-and-health/domestic-violence-and-sexual-assault/support-services

Domestic Violence Crisis Line

Crisis counselling, support and accommodation referrals

1800 800 098

TAS

Family Violence Counselling and Support Service

Information, support, safety planning, assistance with police, referrals

1800 608 122

health.tas.gov.au/health-topics/family-violence/family-violence-counselling-and-support-service-fvcss

VIC

Family Violence Statewide Support Services

Lists the relevant support services available

vic.gov.au/family-violence-statewide-support-services

Safe Steps

Crisis support, information and accommodation

1800 015 188

WA

Crisis Care

Information and counselling for people in crisis

1800 199 008

Women’s Domestic Violence help

Information, referral, support, police liaison

1800 007 339

Men’s Domestic Violence help

For men who have experienced abuse themselves, or are concerned about their own abusive behaviour,

or been served with a restraining order

1800 000 599

Centre for Women’s Safety and Wellbeing

Searchable information about who can provide help:

cwsw.org.au/directory

Women’s Legal Service WA

Useful resources on legal issues

Wlswa.org.au

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