The role of occupational therapy in understanding and responding to domestic violence

Summary of the workshop: 1 in 3 women in Europe experience domestic violence (European Agency for Fundamental Rights 2014). For disabled women, this figure rises to 1 in 2 (Hague et al 2008). Given the scale of the problem and... [ view full abstract ]

Summary of the workshop:
1 in 3 women in Europe experience domestic violence (European Agency for Fundamental Rights 2014). For disabled women, this figure rises to 1 in 2 (Hague et al 2008). Given the scale of the problem and occupational therapy’s (OT) role in supporting disabled people, it is likely that OTs will encounter clients experiencing domestic violence in practice. However, evidence about the role of OT in this area is limited (Cage 2007).

This workshop will raise OTs’ awareness of domestic violence and highlight opportunities for role development. It has three objectives:
• To increase therapists’ knowledge about domestic violence.
• To explore domestic violence from an occupational perspective and identify the role of OT
• To co-create future priorities for practice, research and education

The workshop will begin with a presentation about the prevalence of domestic violence, types of domestic violence and negative consequences for health and well-being. Workshop participants will take part in three rounds of small group discussion focused on: 1. Practice; 2. Education; 3. Research. The session will close with a whole group discussion.

Number of participants:
To facilitate group work as well as meaningful whole group discussion, the workshop will be limited to a maximum of twenty people.

Intended participants:
The combined focus on practice, research and education means that the workshop is suitable for all delegates, with and without prior knowledge and experience of the topic. It provides an opportunity for learning as well as to set priorities for future collaboration.