The IRIS Programme is a holistic intervention based on a two-step approach: firstly, it provides ongoing training and support to clinicians and admin staff, so they become better prepared to identify the signs of domestic abuse among patients; secondly, by embedding an AE (advocate educator) within the general practice setting, the intervention provides an essential direct referral to a named specialist.

For Carol Kelly, Regional Domestic Abuse Operational Manager at Black Country Women’s Aid, the AE role is integral for the success of IRIS, as it cements the link between awareness raising in Primary Care settings and the actual intervention needed for the empowerment of patient populations who have experienced domestic abuse and who need that support. She explained:

“AE training helps GP staff to appreciate the impact of prolonged stress and/or experience of trauma on the body from living with domestic abuse – both current and historic. This also informs them of best practice methods of enabling patients to talk about their experience and also how they can respond effectively to a disclosure and ensure local effective support is made available.”

“AE support enhances the medical interventions which are taking place, or which are being awaited. Often the intervention of regular scheduled emotional support from the AE can retain stability for the patient who is on a lengthy waiting list for counseling and ’talking therapy’. The support of the AE reduces the need for GP appointments and prescriptions. The trauma-informed support of the AE can offer appropriate information, advice, and guidance which helps the patient understand the symptoms they are experiencing and reduce the need for GP appointment time. The local AE is the available expert to help all surgery staff develop their expertise and knowledge of DA.