Domestic abuse affects people across every part of society, including those working in healthcare. Many clinicians live with fear, control or unpredictability while still caring for others, and rates of domestic abuse appear higher in health professionals than in the general population. Despite this, it often remains hidden and hard to name.
In this episode of The Choice Space, I speak with Dr Anoushka George, a GP in Manchester who has been working nationally to raise awareness of domestic abuse in the healthcare workforce. We talk about why recognising what is happening can feel so difficult, how early signs are often subtle and why many clinicians blame themselves for not spotting things sooner.
We explore how people adapt their behaviour to stay safe, the cycle of tension and calm that can make situations confusing and the ways shame and worries about judgement affect help-seeking. Concerns about confidentiality also play a large role, especially for those worried about colleagues accessing their records or about the impact on professional reputation.
Anoushka highlights places where clinicians can seek confidential support, including Practitioner Health, Women’s Aid and national helplines, and emphasises that reaching out does not require someone to be ready to leave a relationship. Talking to one trusted person, even briefly, can make a difference.
We also discuss supporting colleagues. Gentle curiosity – rather than pressure or probing – can create a safe opening for someone who might be struggling. Often what helps most is listening, offering steadiness and signposting to specialist services.
Documentation is another theme. Factual, dated notes can support clarity during times of fear or confusion and provide a useful record later. Apps like Bright Sky offer secure ways to store information. We also touch on DARVO – deny, attack, reverse victim and offender – a tactic some perpetrators use, and how recognising it can protect survivors from further self-doubt.
Throughout the conversation we return to the importance of noticing one’s own needs. Small pauses to check in with how we are feeling can create pockets of space in situations where people have felt overwhelmed for a long time. For clinicians especially, these micro-moments can gently support clearer thinking and emotional steadiness.
This conversation is about reducing stigma, recognising the realities faced by health professionals living with domestic abuse and creating space for care, understanding and safety – one small step at a time.
Choice Space Takeaways
- Confiding in a trusted person can offer support and reduce the sense of managing everything alone.
- Keeping brief, factual records in a safe place can help maintain clarity over time.
- Pausing to check in with yourself during the day can help you notice small ways to care for yourself.
- Meeting one simple need – such as taking a short break or making a drink – can support clearer thinking and regulate strong emotions.
- Noticing when a colleague seems under pressure and offering space to talk, without assumptions or expectations, can help conversations feel safer.
About the guest
Dr Anoushka George is a GP in Manchester with a strong commitment to improving awareness and education around domestic abuse in healthcare. Since 2022, she has been part of a national advisory group working to highlight abuse within the healthcare workforce, amplify survivor voices and build collaboration across key organisations, including RCGP, NHS Practitioner Health, BMA, GMC, RMBF and IRISi. You can connect with her on LinkedIn.
Support and information about domestic abuse
Here are some links to support organisations:
