Online Professional Education for Physiotherapists and other healthcare professionals on Domestic Violence (OPEP-DV)

Summary

OPEP-DV is an Erasmus+ project that strengthens healthcare professionals’ ability to recognise and respond to domestic violence. It provides free, adaptable learning resources and an online training programme featuring practical, evidence-based content. Targeted at vocational and higher education, the project promotes early victim identification and reinforces the role of physiotherapists and other healthcare workers in prevention - contributing to long-term community safety and well-being.

"Empowering healthcare professionals to see beyond the surface is the first step toward breaking the cycle of domestic violence."

Topic(s) addressed

• Domestic violence recognition and response
• Early identification of abuse signs
• Victim support strategies
• Prevention of violence recurrence

Target group(s)  

• Physiotherapists
• Healthcare professionals
• Vocational and higher education institutions
• Trainers

Methodologies used

The project employed interdisciplinary, learner-centred methodologies, including online training (MOOC), workshops, and practical case studies. It combined evidence-based approaches with interactive materials to build skills in recognising and responding to domestic violence. A needs analysis conducted in partner countries informed the adaptation of content to local contexts. Collaborative learning and cultural sensitivity were prioritised to ensure effective knowledge transfer across diverse healthcare and educational settings.

Innovation environment

The OPEP-DV project is innovative in addressing a largely overlooked area - domestic violence awareness and response among physiotherapists and other healthcare professionals. By developing a comprehensive, multidisciplinary training programme - including a MOOC, handbook, and policy guidelines - it fills a critical gap in healthcare education. Its adaptability across diverse cultural and healthcare contexts further strengthens its impact. With a focus on early identification, victim support, and prevention through practical, evidence-based materials, the project sets a new standard for violence prevention in healthcare and supports long-term structural change across Europe.

Teachers’ role

Teachers in the OPEP-DV project played a crucial role as facilitators and advocates for integrating domestic violence awareness into healthcare education. They adapted and delivered interdisciplinary training using innovative resources such as MOOCs and handbooks, ensuring the content was relevant and accessible to diverse learners. Teachers guided students in developing practical skills for early victim identification and support, while promoting empathy and professional responsibility. They also contributed to policy discussions and shared best practices at the international level, fostering a collaborative approach to violence prevention in healthcare settings.

Impact and output

The OPEP-DV project developed freely accessible, multilingual training materials- including a MOOC, handbook, and policy recommendations- which have been integrated into the curricula of several universities and healthcare institutions. These outputs enhanced healthcare professionals’ skills in identifying and responding to domestic violence, strengthening both victim support and prevention efforts. The project also promoted interdisciplinary collaboration and raised awareness across Europe. Its impact goes beyond education, influencing policy and practice, driving systemic change, and contributing to safer communities through early intervention and professional empowerment.

Learn more about the project