Two
workers should visit for the first assessment (if deemed necessary
by the Coordinator).
The
referring agency is required to provide all available information,
including a past history of violence and any existence of a
Domestic Violence Order.
In
situations where safety is an issue, the client visit should
take place at a neutral venue. This venue should not be an
isolated place.
If
a worker feels unsafe, the worker must leave the situation.
The worker always has the right to refuse to see a client.
Workers
should not give surnames, home phone numbers or addresses to
clients.
Where
worker safety could be an issue, workers should park their
cars to allow for a quick exit.
A
mobile phone should be kept on during a client visit. The phone
should have a programmed emergency number.
Workers
should have an emergency code so that when ringing the office
appropriate back-up can be given without alerting anyone listening
to the worker making the call.
Workers
should always leave an itinerary of who they are seeing, where
and the estimated time of return.
Discuss
with the police the best methods of contacting them m an emergency,
particularly in situations where the worker may not be able
to provide them with complete information.
The
worker will share any concerns for safety with the Coordinator
before leaving the office to meet the client. If necessary,
the worker may be accompanied by another worker. A contact
person in the office is to remain there until the worker rings
to report that she has left the situation.
At
the completion of all appointments for the day, the worker
should notify the office.
If
necessary workers should ring the other workers to notify of
any change of movements or completion of appointments for the
day.
Unless
absolutely necessary do not use the client's phone if ringing
from the client's phone punch in other numbers after the call
in case the abuser makes use of the 'recall' facility to trace
the call.
In
the client's home, choose a safe place to sit. Be aware of
access and egress of the premises.
A
list of all worker's clients with phone numbers and addresses
to be kept noting clients with domestic violence issues or
chronic mental health issues
It
is imperative that all appointments to be made by the worker
are duly recorded.
