New training helps Geelong nurses identify and respond to family violence risk

NEW training has equipped maternal and child health nurses (MCHNs) in Geelong to better recognise and respond to concerning family violence behaviours.

The Sexual Assault & Family Violence Centre provided training to 80 MCHNs from the City of Greater Geelong, Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-operative and early childhood education.

The Mother and Child Safe program educated participants on how to respond to disclosures and how to identify signs of concern.

Women and children in Geelong continue to experience higher than state average rates of family violence, with research showing the risk of intimate partner violence increases during pregnancy and the early postnatal period.

The SAFV Centre chief executive Kerriann Campbell-Jones said the training will benefit women across the community.

“The training we have delivered will have a positive impact on thousands of mothers each and every year,” Campbell-Jones said.

“MCHNs have a unique, trusted relationship with new mums so this training will help make more meaningful referrals to support services, ensuring safety for mothers and their babies.”

The municipality’s executive director of city life, Anthony Basford, said participation in the program has strengthened the city’s response to family violence.

“The training focused on recognising pregnancy and the post-birth period as a high-risk time for family violence, equipping practitioners with the skills to identify and respond earlier,” he said.

“Participants reported increased confidence in their practice and a commitment to adapting their approach to better support families experiencing vulnerability.”

The training was delivered in partnership with the City of Greater Geelong and funded through a Benefit Geelong grant.