As part of a new initiative from the Danish Health Authority (SST) and the Agency for Recruitment and Integration (Siri), health visitors, midwives, and doctors will now ask all new parents about possible domestic violence. This is part of a new professional framework called “Violence in Close Relationships,” which aims to detect and prevent partner violence in connection with expanding families. It is well known that the period around pregnancy and the first months with a new child can be particularly challenging and can lead to or exacerbate conflicts at home.
Christina Ersbøll Ross, project manager at SST, explains that the many changes the couple goes through both physically, emotionally, and socially can increase the level of conflict. The new professional framework is designed to help healthcare professionals systematically inquire about domestic violence – something that was previously primarily done if there was a specific suspicion. The violence can be both physical and psychological and involve current or former partners, family members, or other close individuals.
“We hope that it can initiate a process of recognition for those affected by violence when they are asked about it repeatedly. This may lead to the discovery of the violence earlier and appropriate interventions can be implemented more quickly,” says Christina Ersbøll Ross. In addition to the professional framework, SST will also initiate a course for up to 720 midwives and health visitors. The course will specifically train them on how to handle and inquire about violence and honor-related conflicts in their work with pregnant women and new parents.
This initiative is an important step in the fight against partner violence, where early intervention can be crucial to ensuring the safety and well-being of the entire family.