A project aimed at tackling shortcomings in the NHS's response to domestic violence is to be set up in Bristol and east London.
IRIS (Identification and Referral to Improve Safety) is an educational and support programme for GP practices to help them identify and refer patients who are experiencing domestic violence.
Professor Debbie Sharp of the University of Bristol will collaborate with colleagues at Bristol Primary Care Trust, the University of the West of England, the Nia project, Bristol, Next Link and Safer Bristol at the Bristol centre.
The east London centre will be led by Gene Feder, Professor of Primary Care Research and Development at Queen Mary, University of London and a Hackney based GP. The project is one of nine supported by the independent charity, The Health Foundation through its £5.5 million Engaging with Quality in Primary Care scheme.
Domestic violence constitutes a major public health problem - affecting one in four women at some stage in their lives. It profoundly damages women's mental and physical well being, and has long term health and educational consequences for their children. Yet there is currently inadequate response from the NHS in general, and primary care in particular.
Professor Feder said: “We haven't yet found a way of responding appropriately and providing a quality service in relation to partner violence. Women experiencing violence often want to disclose to health care professionals they trust, yet health services have lagged behind other agencies in identifying women at risk and developing effective support."