Embedding a domestic violence specialist in a police station: Police perspectives and engagement

Abstract

This article discusses the findings of an evaluation of the co-location of a domestic violence specialist embedded in a regional police station in Queensland, Australia. With widespread police failures in the response to domestic and family violence (DFV), innovation is critical. There is mounting evidence that DFV victim-survivors are more satisfied when police respond collaboratively with specialist DFV workers, but police support is critical for translation to broad practice. Using a range of data sources, our evaluation found three key benefits of co-location: strengthening of victim support, improved integrated response and enhancement of police practice. This article adds new knowledge about integrated responses to domestic violence, particularly where there are evidence gaps in police perspectives. In view of these findings, implications for practice support further implementation of co-locational responses in Australia.