Domestic Violence and Abuse – Level 1 Course

Domestic Violence and Abuse – Level 1 Online Course

Course overview
This online awareness course introduces domestic violence and abuse, including its different forms, warning signs and effects on individuals, children, families and communities. Learners explore how to recognise potential risks, respond sensitively to disclosures and understand the role of multi-agency working in safeguarding and supporting people affected by abuse. The course takes approximately one hour to complete and is CPD-accredited, providing 1 CPD point.

Please note: This is a Level 1 awareness course designed to develop foundational knowledge of domestic violence and abuse. It does not replace any practical, regulated or role-specific training that an employer may require.

What the course covers
• Definitions, types of domestic abuse and common misconceptions
• The physical and psychological effects of domestic violence and abuse
• Risk factors, vulnerabilities and patterns of abuse
• The prevalence of domestic abuse in the UK
• Warning signs and indicators of possible abuse
• Sensitive approaches to asking about domestic abuse
• Responding appropriately to disclosures and immediate concerns
• Safety, listening and validating the experiences of those affected
• Multi-agency partnerships, coordinated services and information sharing
• The roles of families and carers in supporting victims
• Specialist referrals and signposting to support services
• Appropriate referral pathways for people who perpetrate abuse
• Diversity, equality, inclusive language and cultural considerations
• Barriers to accessing support, including fear, dependency and stigma

Who is it for?
This course is suitable for staff, volunteers and individuals who want to develop their understanding of domestic violence and abuse. It is particularly relevant to:
• Health and social care professionals, including nurses, doctors, social workers and care staff
• Teachers, teaching assistants, youth workers and community workers
• NHS, ambulance, mental health and other frontline personnel
• Volunteers and outreach workers supporting vulnerable individuals and families
• Managers, supervisors and safeguarding leads
• People undertaking induction or refresher awareness training
• Anyone seeking a better understanding of domestic abuse and appropriate responses

Practical benefits
• Develop awareness of different forms of domestic abuse and their potential effects
• Improve recognition of warning signs and possible risk factors
• Understand how to respond sensitively when someone discloses abuse
• Build knowledge of referral options and appropriate support services
• Understand the importance of coordinated working between agencies
• Recognise barriers that may prevent people from seeking help
• Support safer, more consistent safeguarding practices within the workplace
• Gain evidence of learning through a CPD-accredited digital certificate

What learners will be able to do
• Explain key terms and concepts relating to domestic violence and abuse
• Recognise common indicators, concerns and risk factors
• Understand how domestic abuse can affect individuals, children and families
• Identify appropriate ways to ask about abuse and respond to disclosures
• Apply good-practice principles when supporting someone affected by abuse
• Understand individual responsibilities and professional role boundaries
• Recognise when advice, reporting or escalation may be necessary
• Identify the importance of specialist referrals and multi-agency collaboration
• Communicate appropriately with relevant people and services
• Recognise barriers to accessing support and the importance of inclusive practice

Is this training a legal requirement?
The course is aligned with the Domestic Abuse Act 2021 and multi-agency collaboration standards. It introduces learners to domestic abuse definitions and legal protections, alongside approaches to safeguarding and coordinated support. The supplied information does not establish that this specific course is legally mandatory for all staff or that it replaces any role-specific training requirements.

Assessment and certificate
Learners complete an online multiple-choice assessment with a pass mark of 70%. Unlimited retakes are available at no additional charge. After passing, learners can immediately download a CPD-accredited digital certificate confirming successful completion and awarding 1 CPD point. A printed certificate can also be ordered for an additional fee. The course is delivered entirely online, is self-paced and can be accessed on a desktop, laptop, tablet or smartphone. Learners have 12 months of access from enrolment.