The system is aimed at reducing the risk of these patients not being referred on to essential services.
An audit at the hospital revealed that, from January to July last year, 41 patients disclosed being assaulted by someone they knew, but only 18 were referred to the medical social work department.
“This initiative aims to close that gap by increasing awareness, improving staff training and encouraging more patients to seek the help they need,” said a spokeswoman.
Prof Michael Keane, the hospital’s interim chief executive, said: “As healthcare providers, we have a moral responsibility to be more than just caregivers. We must be advocates for safety and change.
“The domestic violence pathway will help ensure that anyone who enters our emergency department seeking help knows they are not alone.
Our goal is to ensure that patients affected by domestic violence know they have a safe space here
“This initiative is about giving people trapped in fear a lifeline, providing them with practical tools, real support and helping them take back control of their lives and their safety.”
All emergency department staff have undergone specialised training. The 45-minute sessions are designed to help staff identify the signs of domestic violence, provide compassionate support and ensure people experiencing abuse receive follow-up care.
The training covers the different forms of abuse – emotional, financial, sexual, psychological, coercive control and physical violence – and how to effectively respond to those in need.
Dr John Cronin, an emergency consultant, added: “In the emergency department, we see first-hand the devastating impacts of domestic violence.
“Our goal is to ensure that patients affected by domestic violence know they have a safe space here, where help is available the moment they are ready to seek it.”
As part of the new system, relevant contact details and QR codes are displayed throughout the emergency department.
These link to national support services such as Women’s Aid and Men’s Development Network, ensuring discreet access to help.
Assistance can also be provided in developing safety plans for a patient, whether they are returning home or seeking emergency accommodation.
