Victims of domestic abuse and sexual violence will get extra support through their GP practice thanks to a new programme coming to Essex.
NHS Essex will receive over £4.4 million over the next three years under the national Steps to Safety programme, supporting GP practices to recognise the signs of domestic abuse and sexual violence. The money will fund the commissioning of a provider to deliver the programme, training for GP staff, and the hiring of specialist support workers.
GP staff may encounter people experiencing abuse who are isolated and may struggle to reach out to services that could help them.
At participating GP practices, patients will be able to talk to staff about their experience of domestic abuse or sexual violence. With the patient’s agreement, they can then be referred into a specialist support service.
Specialist support workers will be assigned to groups of GP practices and help train staff to recognise the signs of domestic abuse and sexual violence. They will also connect victims to local specialist services that can provide extra help, acting as a single point of contact for patients that have been referred and advocating for their needs when accessing specialist services.
Securing funding through the Steps to Safety programme will help us strengthen support for people affected by domestic abuse and sexual violence across Southend, Essex and Thurrock.
William Guy, Director of Commissioning (Primary Care and Neighbourhood) at NHS Essex
We know that domestic abuse and sexual violence affect people of all ages and backgrounds, causing physical injuries and trauma impacting their mental health. These people may also feel they are alone with no one they can turn to for help.
GPs, nurses and the wider general practice team build trusted relationships with patients over many years and may be among the first to see the signs of domestic abuse. Steps to Safety will help GP staff build their confidence in recognising the signs and providing support, so people can get the right help when they need it.”
Essex will be among the first areas across England to introduce the programme, with the Government announcing an initial rollout in 12 areas as part of phase 1.
NHS Essex will be working closely with GP practices, specialist domestic abuse and sexual violence services and local partners over the coming months to bring forward plans for the programme.
Timescales and next steps will be confirmed in the coming months as local plans are developed.