Background:
Family violence (FV) presents uniquely in the cancer care context — ranging from interference with treatment adherence and control of medications to targeting wound sites and financial abuse during palliative stages. Health professionals are often among the few people FV victim survivors interact with, placing clinicians in a critical position to identify and respond to risk. The chronic nature of cancer means patients may have more frequent and ongoing contact with their care teams than in other healthcare settings, providing unique opportunities for clinicians to recognise and address family violence. While foundational training builds awareness, clinicians require tailored support to respond effectively to the complex and nuanced presentations of FV within oncology.
Development:
A tiered model was developed to strengthen clinical responses to FV at a comprehensive cancer centre. This included FV training tailored to the cancer context and the establishment of a secondary consultation service for staff. Training focused on both victim-survivor and perpetrator presentations and was informed by current legislative frameworks and the FV Multi Agency Risk Assessment Framework. Secondary consultations provided case-specific guidance, including advice on risk management strategies, information sharing and referral pathways.
Implementation:
Training modules were delivered through various formats to suit clinical schedules. Alongside this, a dedicated consultation service was established in 2023 to support clinical teams with real-time decision-making. While formal evaluation of training outcomes is pending, staff feedback indicates increased confidence and improved capability to manage complex presentations. Consultation uptake has been strong, with high demand from allied health and nursing professionals.
Impact:
Preliminary data and feedback suggest that coupling targeted training with access to specialist consultation enhances clinical confidence. Staff report greater clarity in undertaking specialist risk assessments, identifying perpetrator behaviour, and engaging external services. The approach has contributed to safer, more consistent care for patients and carers experiencing family violence.