Domestic abuse in the UK is legally defined under the Domestic Abuse Act 2021 as abusive behaviour between individuals aged 16 or over who are personally connected, and includes physical, sexual, emotional, psychological, controlling or coercive behaviour, as well as economic abuse. It is recognised that children are also victims when they see, hear, or experience abuse within the home. Health visitors play a vital early intervention role by building trusted relationships with families, routinely enquiring about domestic abuse, identifying risk, offering safety planning and emotional support, and signposting or referring to specialist services. With unique access to the home environment and early years of a child’s life, they are often the first professionals to recognise concerns and are central to safeguarding babies, children, and families.

iHV Resources

🎥 Insight Webinar Recordings

Our regular one‑hour webinars provide easily accessible CPD opportunities and the chance to learn from leading experts in their field. 

Img_26 March 2026 - Strengthening Safeguarding Practice: Professional Curiosity and Confident Challenge

26 March 2026 - Strengthening Safeguarding Practice: Professional Curiosity and Confident Challenge

🔎 iHV LEARN Programmes (free to access for iHV members):

We offer a range of e-learning and toolkits to support your practice via our learning platform iHV LEARN. Additional resources are available within courses for those who have completed the corresponding training programme.

Img_Changing Conversations Domestic Abuse Toolkit

Changing Conversations Domestic Abuse Toolkit

Associated iHV Resources

Img_Safeguarding

Safeguarding