A recent parliamentary debate highlighted an urgent reality: “It is the health service, more so than the Police, that are on the frontline” when it comes to identifying and supporting victims of domestic abuse.
Analysis shows that the NHS has more contact with victims and perpetrators than any other public service. As the debate noted, “Each year, about half a million people seek support from the NHS in relation to domestic abuse and 85% of them ask at least five times before they receive effective support.” Yet too often, opportunities to intervene are missed because staff are not adequately trained. “For too long, support services have been unable to support victims and survivors effectively… women and girls have not been able to access the support they need.”
This is where our IRIS programme makes a real difference. IRIS (Identification and Referral to Improve Safety) works with GP practices to:
- Train staff to recognise signs of domestic abuse
- Provide clear referral pathways to specialist support
- Ensure patients get help as early as possible
IRIS has already delivered significant impact, helping healthcare staff spot abuse early and connect patients to the support they need. As highlighted in the debate, “We need things to be coordinated… it is a whole team approach, with pharmacists, nurses and physiotherapists also needing to be trained and aware of the signs and symptoms of domestic abuse.” IRIS provides exactly that coordinated, whole-practice approach.
Herefordshire IRIS team with staff at Much Birch surgery
Unfortunately, ongoing funding to sustain IRIS in Herefordshire has proven impossible to secure through traditional channels. To continue this essential work, we are now raising the funds ourselves. The recent debate and reports underscore why this programme is so vital: the health service can save lives if properly equipped and empowered, but victims are being let down when training and resources are lacking.
Our IRIS programme proves that with the right support, GPs and health teams can make a tangible difference — and we are committed to keeping it running for those who need it most.
Watch the full debate here