During lockdown Frontline fellow Christina took part in a session by Dr Arlene Vetere on systemic working with families experiencing violence. The session came at a really good time and was an important reminder to consider creative ways of working with families and to hold professional anxiety at arm’s length.

Working systemically with domestic abuse is crucial to ensure children and families are supported effectively. At this time, being creative and adapting our practice – while always prioritising safety – will make a huge difference for the families we’re working with.

As social workers, we need to be at the forefront of tackling systemic racism to be truly anti-racist.

It is absolutely vital that we continue to build strong trusting relationships with the children and families we are supporting during the pandemic.

Despite the challenges of social distancing, social workers must continue to support families to make the little changes that make all the difference.

The more time that at-risk families spend cooped up together, the more situations might escalate and spill over into abuse.