Dr Jan Coles is conducting a research project which investigates how GPs recognise child abuse in practice. The research explores how GPs respond to child abuse and the decision making process involved. The GP’s experiences of reporting to child protection services will also be documented. The aim of the study is to

· Better understand how GPs recognise and respond to child abuse in clinical practice
· To describe the reporting experiences of GPs

The study has ethics approval from Monash University. The RACGP National Research and Evaluation Committee was approached but approval was not required as all participants will be from Victoria.

The project is funded by a RACGP Family Medical Care, Education and Research Grant.

A plain language explanation is available from This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it for your information.

Dr Jan Coles’ background is as a general practitioner. She currently works in academic general practice and for Child Abuse Prevention
Research Australia (formerly NRCPCA). 

GPs who are interested in participating can contact Jan for more information on 9501 5512 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Jan Coles
Senior Research Fellow, Child Abuse Prevention Research Australia
Senior Lecturer, Department of General Practice, Monash University
Building 1
270 Ferntree Gully Rd
Notting Hill
Victoria 3168
AUSTRALIA

http://www.nrcpca.monash.org/