The birth of a child inevitably brings about significant changes for a family. Sadly, it’s also a period during which women are particularly vulnerable to family violence. For that reason, Maternal & Child Health Nurses are in a unique position to identify and support women at risk.

Over 40 nurses from Maroondah and Yarra Ranges Councils participated in ECLC’s family violence training on August 2, where the Centre’s specialist family violence lawyers provided an overview of the legal options for women seeking safety.

MCH Nurses from Maroondah and Yarra Ranges at family violence
professional development day with ECLC and BWAHS.

Dr Deidre Gartland of the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute delivered key findings from research into the health and wellbeing impacts on women and children. More than one in four mothers experience family violence in the first four years after having their first child, which can have serious impact on their physical and psychological health and on their child’s emotional and behavioural wellbeing.

Boorndawan Willam Aboriginal Healing Service and the Migrant Information Centre presented an overview of cultural awareness factors that may impact on the experience of Aboriginal women and women from culturally and linguistically diverse communities.

Nurses said the session provided a valuable opportunity to develop ‘greater sensitivity and awareness about the reality of Aboriginal and CALD women’s lives’ and apply principles and new knowledge to improve their practice.

ECLC delivers professional development and legal education on a range of topics. Click here for more information.