The Intersection of Domestic Violence and Child Protection in Australia: Program Participant Accounts

Abstract

ABSTRACTDomestic and family violence (DFV) and child maltreatment have been widely identified as co-occurring social phenomena. It has been well established that children living in an environment of DFV are at significant risk of either directly experiencing violence themselves, or being neglected due to their parents’ reduced caregiving capacity. In order to effectively address clients’ presenting concerns, intervention responses must account for the overlap between these social issues. This article describes the experience of DFV and child protection involvement as experienced by clients attending two different interventions at Relationships Australia NSW; group programs for DFV perpetration or victimisation; and a parenting program in the context of statutory child removal. Findings provide evidence of overlap between these issues and highlight how a supportive and non-judgemental group environment can allow parents to make behavioural changes and equip themselves to provide a safe and nurturing environment in which to raise their children.IMPLICATIONSPrograms for parents whose children have been removed have major overlap with domestic and family violence interventions.Supportive group work processes can help parents begin to address issues of violence and abuse.It is important to address child protection and domestic violence concerns at the same time, in order to provide children with a safe environment.