The A-LIVES (Ask, Listen, Inquire, Validate, Enhance Safety, Support) research has been published in the Australian Journal of General Practice (AJGP), Volume 53, No 11, November 2024, marking a significant achievement in Western Victoria Primary Health Network’s (WVPHN) efforts to disseminate the Family Violence A-LIVES Research, which aims to enhance the readiness and response to Family Violence in general practices.
Publication of the research not only recognises the hard work and dedication of lead researcher Dr Melinda Gill, and WVPHN’s project team, but also solidifies the co-designed A-LIVES framework as a innovative program in this critical area.
Breaking New Ground in Family Violence Response
Accepted into the AJGP late last year, the A-LIVES research article provides a comprehensive overview of the program’s development, including:
- Methodology: A rapid cycle evaluation methodology in order to tailor the program to meet the needs of primary care professionals in identifying and responding to family violence.
- Outcome Data: Initial results showcasing the program’s impact on increasing awareness, improving intervention skills, and enhancing safety for patients at risk.
- Qualitative Learnings: Insights from participants highlighting the importance of including practice approaches to providing culturally safe, trauma-informed care in supporting individuals and families affected by family violence.
The research also emphasises the essential role of general practitioners and primary healthcare staff play, in addressing family violence, offering practical strategies and frameworks that can be implemented across diverse healthcare settings.
Gratitude to Key Enablers
This milestone would not have been possible without the partnership and support of Dr Melinda Gill (lead researcher and author), the Family Violence Connectors, participating general practices in western Victoria, and WVPHN’s Project Team. Everyone’s commitment to fostering innovative approaches and enabling research has been instrumental in bringing the A-LIVES program to life.