Initially efforts focused on ensuring safety for women and children fleeing violent partners.Over the years, this focus has broadened to include the serious effects of domestic violence on children, what can be done to assist perpetrators of abuse, and the needs of those affected by abuse in all areas including social services, housing, legal and most recently, health services.Recognition by nurses about the extent of these health consequences is central to their commitment to working with women to address the underlying cause of poor health.Research suggests women who have been subjected to violence tend not to ask professionals directly for help.In order to ensure this, we must become tireless in our efforts not only to attain peace, justice and prosperity for countries, but also for communities and members of the same family.We must address the roots of violence." —Nelson Mandela It is now 30 years since domestic violence first began to emerge as a significant issue.In a recent women's safety survey, 79% of women who had experienced physical assault and 81.25% who had experienced sexual assault had not sought any professional help.

They must then insist the organisations in which they work accept this responsibility and work together to create environments that support people experiencing domestic violence.

What would it mean to nurses who are themselves living in abusive/violent relationships, or other women living with abuse/violence whom nurses meet in the course of their work, if this topic could be discussed in informed and supportive ways?

It is imperative that nurses are prepared to educate themselves, and confront their fears, values and beliefs, while working towards creating an environments for this to occur.

They are more likely to approach friends, family or the helping professions, and the response to disclosure is significant in determining the woman's subsequent help seeking behaviour.

The response of nurses to women in these circumstances can have a profound effect on their willingness to open up or to seek help.