Domestic and sexual violence (DSV) is widely recognised as a pervasive, and preventable problem with significant health and social impacts. The innovative Dentists and Domestic Violence - Recognise, Respond and Refer (DDV-RRR) program has developed and delivered DSV educational material to teach undergraduate dentists to recognise, respond, and refer patients who are victim-survivors of DSV. Dentists are uniquely positioned to identify patients who experience DSV during routine assessments.

The DDV-RRR involves an inter-professional collaboration with members from Social Work, the DSV sector, and dentistry. Informed by Social Work theory, a gendered analysis, and a trauma-informed approach to DSV, the inter-professional collaboration developed educational resources consisting of six dentistry specific educational videos and related resources that delivers DSV information and encourages critical reflection and dialogue about DSV. The topics explored in the educational videos and resources include basic and extended interpersonal skills and information on DSV, a trauma-informed approach to dentistry appointments with victim-survivors of DSV, legal and ethical considerations, considering unintended consequences, and working with First Nations Australians.

Current research and outcomes:
The inter-professional collaboration employed a Participatory Action Research Model to ensure authenticity and best practice for dentists responding to DSV. Formative research participants included DSV victim-survivors, dental students, DSV practitioners, educators and community stakeholders. Mixed methods were utilised for the design and evaluation phases of the research. Interviews and focus groups were analysed thematically. Dental specialists and Domestic Violence experts peer reviewed preliminary findings. Summative evaluation of the training resources is being conducted using online surveys and focus groups.

Conclusion :
The DSV resources will enable dentists to build their competency in recognising and responding to DSV, using a gendered analysis and applying trauma-informed approach to DSV. The development of these educational videos and resources contributes to a community that is more informed and responsive to addressing DSV.

Key Learnings:

1. Dentists have a vital role in recognising, responding and referring patients who experience DSV but they require appropriate training and accessible resources to develop dental workforce capabilities and support best practice.

2. Inter-professional and inter-sectoral collaboration between dentistry, social work, and DSV services enables the development of dentistry-specific training resources that facilitate best practice when providing trauma informed care to victim-survivors. Emphasis on the needs of vulnerable populations in regional and remote communities is required.

3. Dental graduates trained to competently recognise, assess and respond to DSV, prioritise safety, provide information and refer as required can make a difference.