A fresh approach to supporting domestic abuse survivors is being introduced across Surrey and Sussex.
The regional NHS trust has been selected as one of twelve areas to participate in an initial rollout of the Steps to Safety initiative, a programme backed by national funding.
The scheme focuses on strengthening connections between family doctors and organisations offering specialised assistance to individuals experiencing domestic abuse or sexual violence.
Enhanced referral systems form the cornerstone of the programme.
Allison Cannon, who serves as chief nursing officer for NHS Surrey and Sussex, acknowledged the significance of the initiative.
Medical practices serve as environments where patients regularly seek guidance and may feel comfortable enough to disclose difficult circumstances.
The trust aims to ensure appropriate resources remain accessible and that collaborative efforts effectively reach those requiring support.
Implementation will involve comprehensive instruction for both clinical and administrative personnel to identify potential indicators of abuse.
Specialist practitioners will be positioned within GP surgeries to provide direct assistance to patients.
Expanded cooperation with charitable sector partners will complement these measures.
The initiative intends to enhance established support structures already present in the area, with active delivery scheduled to commence in the opening months of 2027.