What survivors of domestic abuse are telling Healthwatch about their NHS care
Domestic abuse is a serious and widespread issue that affects people in every community. It can take many forms, including emotional, physical, sexual, financial, and coercive control, and its impact on health and wellbeing can be long-lasting.
A recent blog from Healthwatch England highlights the experiences of survivors of domestic abuse when accessing NHS services and the challenges many continue to face when seeking support.
You can read the full blog here
Key messages from the national findings
Healthwatch England’s findings bring together the voices of survivors and wider evidence to show that, while healthcare services can play a vital role in identifying and supporting people experiencing domestic abuse, this does not always happen consistently. Survivors describe a mixed picture of care, with some positive experiences but also gaps in identification, understanding, and follow-up support, particularly where trauma and safety concerns are not fully taken into account.
Why this matters locally
For Healthwatch Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, these findings reinforce the importance of listening to people’s experiences of NHS care and ensuring services are designed in ways that are safe, accessible, and trauma-informed.
Domestic abuse is not only a criminal justice issue, it is also a health issue. Health services often represent one of the first points of contact for survivors, making it vital that staff feel confident in identifying signs of abuse and responding appropriately.
What needs to change
Healthwatch England is calling for stronger training in trauma-informed care, improved systems to ensure patient records are accurate and safe, and better pathways to specialist support for survivors.
These recommendations reflect what people have told us locally and nationally: that when someone seeks help, they should feel heard, believed, and supported.
Support is available
If you or someone you know is affected by domestic abuse, support is available. You can find help and information via the NHS website or national domestic abuse support services.
