The candidate must be able to demonstrate essential knowledge required to effectively complete tasks outlined in elements and performance criteria of this unit, manage tasks and manage contingencies in the context of the work role. This includes knowledge of:
legal and ethical considerations (national and state/territory) for workers interacting with clients affected by domestic and family violence , and how these are applied in organisations and individual practice:
children in the workplace
codes of conduct
discrimination
duty of care
human rights
mandatory reporting
privacy, confidentiality and disclosure
records management
rights and responsibilities of:
workers and employers
individuals, families, the community and society to minimise or prevent domestic violence
work role boundaries – responsibilities and limitations
work health and safety
domestic violence and its context, including:
social, historical, political and economic context of domestic violence, including types and nature of domestic violence, power and gender issues, child abuse and associated criminal issues
prevalence of myths, unhelpful beliefs, attitudes and practices in the broader society regarding domestic violence and their effects on individuals’ rights to safety and autonomy
underpinning values and philosophies in responding to domestic and family violence, including:
safety and well-being of those subjected to domestic violence must be the first priority of any response
all individuals have the right to be free from violence
community has a responsibility to work toward the prevention of domestic violence and to demonstrate the unacceptability of all forms of domestic violence
all forms of domestic violence are unacceptable in any group, culture or creed
those who use violence should take responsibility for their behaviour and have access to programs to assist them change their behaviour to ensure the safety of their family
commitment to meeting the needs and upholding the rights of clients
commitment to empowering those affected by domestic violence
domestic violence is widespread and complex
domestic violence impacts on the physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being and safety of individuals in families
domestic violence and abuse has devastating effects on family members and results in significant social and economic costs to the community
the differences between responding to clients in a crisis situation and those requiring long term support
immediate needs for assessment, including:
safety and physical and emotional security
safety plans
legal or medical information and support
accommodation/transportation
safety and welfare of any children whether with client or not
organisation procedures, practices and standards for:
client assessment
allocation of services
case management
interviewing
use of resources
programmed intervention
referral
groups represented within the local community (cultural, religious, language, sexual identity, age and disability) and an understanding of the issues that arise when working with those groups
referral sources and associated protocols
own values and attitudes and their potential impact on clients.