Background. Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) is a universal problem and is considered a significant public health issue. Health professionals are in an ideal position to recognise and respond to IPV and improve saftey of those experiencing IPV. But there is significant evidence that they do not always respond appropriately. Previous empirical work has suggested that increasing health professionals’ awareness, recognition and empowerment in relation to IPV may positively influence their safety responses. As yet however the mechanisms for how this might work have not been explored.

Methods Using methods and tools from the field of Theory of Change, we undertook a structured, six step analysis. Theory of Change involves a back-mapping (filling the gaps) from intended outcomes (improved IPV safety responses) to key domains considered to be important, i.e. awareness, recognition and empowerment. The aim of the process was to identify the requirements to bring about change in safety responses.

Results We identified the requirements for each of the three domains: 1) Awareness (Enhancing understanding, increasing confidence, dispelling myths and stereotypes); 2) Recognition (Establishing trusting relationships, creating opportunities for disclosure); 3) Empowerment (Increasing likelihood of disclosure, appropriate support and referral). Each requirement area has a corresponding set of actions for safe practice. These cluster around four important areas: Education, training and clinical supervision; Interpersonal relationships; IPV enquiry; Safety planning.

Conclusions In this presentation we will explore the important mechanisms through which health professionals’ responses to IPV can be improved. The presentation will appeal to delegates interested in the relationship between health care, violence and IPV safety planning.