Health Minister Mike Nesbitt and Justice Minister Naomi Long launched the Routine Enquiry into Domestic Abuse Guidance on 8 March. The document targets midwives, health visitors, school nurses, and family nurses in Northern Ireland.

Routine Enquiry requires practitioners to ask all women about domestic abuse during pregnancy and postnatal periods. This practice began in 2006 for pregnant women, including those who experienced miscarriage or stillbirth. The guidance extends to same-sex couples and foster carers.

School nurses conduct enquiries during targeted home visits and Family Health Assessments, including Primary 1 appraisals when parents are present. Family nurses follow the Family Nurse Partnership Intimate Partner Violence pathway with clients.

A Public Health Agency review prompted the guidance. The review featured service evaluation and input from survivors via Women's Aid and the Rowan Centre. Development involved stakeholders from Northern Ireland's five Health and Social Care Trusts.

Nesbitt said the guidance advances the 2024 Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy by promoting earlier identification and intervention. Long stated nurses serve as first responders to support victims toward safety and justice.

Emily Roberts, Interim Director of Nursing at the Public Health Agency, noted domestic abuse impacts people across Northern Ireland communities irrespective of age, status, orientation, identity, race, or religion.

Awareness sessions for staff occur throughout March. Revised training programmes will run from April to September 2026.