Victim/survivors of family violence

Family violence encompasses a number of different types of violence including physical and sexual violence, financial abuse and coercive control. First disclosure of experiences of family violence are often conveyed to a health professional. Please ask the question about safety at home.

●      In the case of sexual violence reportedly perpetrated by a domestic partner, patients should be referred to CASA as per the above pathway

●      Early referrals to ALERT for a Family Violence assessment and safety planning are appreciated.

●      Consider a low threshold for admission to hospital if there is any medical indication and inform ALERT&/our inpatient social work team. Support the patient to stay in hospital if concerns about their safety.

●      If the patient is in need of further support or case management regarding other forms of family violence:

○      Safe Steps t: 1800 015 188 (or direct ED referrals t: 9322 3533) provides crisis assessments and referrals into safe accommodation. This service is statewide and operates 24/7. 

○      1800RESPECT 1800 737 732 national counselling helpline, information and support 24/7

○      WIRE Women’s support Line 1300 134 130 free confidential information and referral service 

○      The Orange Door Family violence support and extra help for children and families (orangedoor.vic.gov.au): these services are locality based providing ongoing support and referrals for survivors of FV