In the run-up to the upcoming general election, a coalition of over 70 prominent organisations dedicated to tackling Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) has united under a joint manifesto. This manifesto serves as a pivotal document urging all political parties to prioritise the eradication of VAWG through comprehensive, inclusive strategies that extend beyond the confines of the criminal justice system. The urgency of this call is underscored by alarming statistics: in the UK, a woman is killed by a man every three days, and one in four women experience domestic abuse in their lifetimes.
The manifesto outlines ten key areas where substantial progress is needed, spanning rights and inequalities, prevention measures, funding for specialist services, economic barriers, and reforms within health and social care systems. Among these priorities, the health and adult social care section stands out for its emphasis on integrating evidence-based interventions like IRIS and ADViSE into mainstream health services.
Health and Adult Social Care: A critical frontier
Healthcare professionals are uniquely positioned to identify and support survivors of VAWG. The manifesto stresses the crucial role of these professionals in offering a safe space for survivors, often the first point of contact outside of the abusive environment. However, despite their pivotal role, awareness and consistent response mechanisms across health bodies remain inconsistent. This inconsistency not only hampers effective support but also perpetuates gaps in service provision highlighted in various Domestic Homicide Reviews and inquiries.
Central to the manifesto’s recommendations are the adoption and expansion of initiatives such as IRIS and ADViSE within healthcare settings. IRIS (Identification and Referral to Improve Safety) operates within GP practices, facilitating early intervention and support for those affected by domestic abuse. Similarly, ADViSE enhances support structures in sexual health clinics, ensuring comprehensive care for survivors of sexual violence.
These interventions are hailed for their effectiveness in bridging the gap between specialist services and healthcare professionals to provide tailored support to victims and survivors of Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence. By embedding IRIS and ADViSE within mainstream healthcare settings, the manifesto advocates for a proactive approach that goes beyond clinical interventions to encompass holistic, person-centred care. This approach is essential in addressing the multifaceted impact of VAWG on survivors’ physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
As the nation gears up for the general election, the manifesto’s call for action on VAWG is not just a political stance but a moral imperative. It urges policymakers to commit to a comprehensive response that prioritises the safety and well-being of the most marginalized individuals in society. By endorsing initiatives like IRIS and ADViSE, the manifesto underscores the importance of integrating specialised support into everyday health services.
This integration not only enhances the quality of care for survivors but also contributes to broader societal efforts to eliminate VAWG. As voters, advocates, and stakeholders, we must ensure that these critical issues remain at the forefront of the political agenda, demanding tangible commitments from our leaders to build a safer and more equitable future for all.
