By Medina Johnson, CEO at IRISi
At IRISi Interventions, we have been at the forefront of improving the healthcare response to Gender Based violence since 2017. IRIS is our flagship programme to enhance the response to Domestic Abuse in General Practices and it has now expanded to 50 areas nationwide. Additionally, ADViSE, our initiative in Sexual Health clinics, has strengthened the response to Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence in a number of regions. Through our collaborations with 34 specialist organisations, up to March 2023, IRIS and ADViSE teams had identified and referred 36,352 patients to support services within healthcare settings.
These efforts are critical. According to the Department of Health and Social Care, 80% of women in violent relationships seek help from health services, often making these their first or only point of contact. This highlights the unique opportunity healthcare providers have to protect women and prevent the escalation of abuse.
Despite our successes, securing sustainable long-term funding for our interventions remains a significant challenge – and this should not be the case. Our programmes are not only evidence-based but also cost-effective. Data shows that IRIS is at least 4.8 times more cost-effective than the annual flu jab. However, the broader economic pressures and the strain on the national healthcare system have hindered our ability to make these vital services accessible nationwide.
IRIS and ADViSE save lives, and we must amplify this message and this work. Leading up to and following the General Election, IRISi has supported and signed multiple letters, manifestos and documents addressed to political parties, the Prime Minister, and MPs to strengthen our national voice and impact. These efforts include our partnerships with other organisations to advocate for crucial changes:
- Joint VAWG and Health Letter (led by Standing Together Against Domestic Abuse): Emphasising urgent priorities for the Secretary for Health and Social Care, Wes Streeting, including sustainable funding, ongoing training, community coordination and effective data management.
- Calling SOS (led by Agenda Alliance): Urging the new government to introduce a dedicated Secretary of State for Women and Girls to address their unmet needs with significant political resources.
- In Our Words (led by Imkaan): Urging improvements in policy and practice to end #violence, #racism, and #inequality against Black and minoritised women and girls.
- Preventing Violence Against Women and Girls (led by End Violence Against Women Coalition): Highlighting the need for inclusive, high-quality Relationship, Sex, and Health Education (#RSHE) to ensure the safety of children and young people.
- FSRH Hatfield Vision Manifesto for the 2024 General Election (led by FSRH – Faculty of sexual and reproductive healthcare): Calling for prioritisation of women’s reproductive health with practical, achievable proposals requiring strong political leadership.
We are hopeful and confident that the new government will support us in expanding our vital work nationwide. The recent appointments of Jess Phillips as Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State in the UK Home Office, Jess Asato as the MP for Lowestoft, and Alexandra Davies-Jones transitioning to the Ministry of Justice UK are encouraging. These exceptional women have been tireless advocates for the rights of women and girls, and their leadership inspires us all. They are our steadfast allies in the fight to end abuse, and together, we can create a brighter, safer future for everyone.
We also welcome the appointments of Bridget Phillipson as the new Minister for Women and Equalities, and Anneliese Dodds as Minister for Women and Equalities in the Department for Education. Both have impressive track records in advocating for women’s rights and have consistently championed policies that support gender equality. Additionally, Karin Smyth, the newly appointed Minister of State for Health, has a strong history of championing women’s health and rights. Her extensive experience in healthcare and dedication to public service make her a valuable ally in our efforts to protect and empower women.
With this strong team, we are optimistic that they will support our mission and help us expand our vital work nationwide. IRISi’s mission continues and our voice will be heard. Domestic Abuse is a health crisis and it’s time to act now. Let’s forge partnerships and drive the change we need.
Medina Johnson is the CEO at IRISi: medina.johnson@irisi.org