From this autumn, nursing students at Queen’s University Belfast will be the first to receive dedicated training on domestic abuse and violence against women and girls as part of their degree. This pioneering programme, The Unlock Safety Initiative, is designed to equip future nurses with the skills to recognise abuse, respond effectively to disclosures, and connect patients with support services.
Developed in collaboration with the Royal College of Nursing, School of Nursing & Midwifery Queen’s University Belfast, Women’s Aid Federation NI and the End Violence Against Women and Girls Change Fund at The Executive Office, this initiative marks a significant step forward in tackling the issue of violence against women and girls with the capacity to reach over 600 nursing students.
The training will be delivered annually to pre-registration nursing students throughout their degree programme, ensuring students gain sustained and practical knowledge to support victims and play an active role in building a safer society.
This groundbreaking launch comes at a pivotal moment. In 2024, Northern Ireland introduced its first ever Ending Violence Against Women & Girls Strategic Framework. PSNI data reveals that domestic abuse accounts for around 20% of all recorded crime in the region. Tragically, six women were killed last year—most in their own homes.
Supported by The Executive Office’s Change Fund, c University, ensuring that future nurses are equipped with the knowledge and skills to support victims and contribute to ending violence against women in Northern Ireland and create a safer society for everyone."