FEMALE medics experience domestic abuse at rates three times above the national average, campaigners said today ahead of the first NHS Domestic Abuse Awareness Day.

The Doctors Association UK (DAUK) and the Medical Women’s Federation (MWF) said the December 10 event would highlight the urgent need to recognise and respond to domestic abuse affecting NHS staff.

DAUK co-chairwoman and MWF campaigns co-lead Dr Ellen Welch, who is organising the day, said: “As a solo parent on social media parenting groups, it struck me just how many doctor mums confided their experience of abuse within these spaces.

“The more I’ve learned, it’s clear this is more than just anecdotal and domestic abuse is rife among healthcare professionals.

“NHS Domestic Abuse Awareness Day aims to ensure that the same care and support staff extend to patients is also given to them.”

White Ribbon Day, highlighting the global movement to end male violence against women and girls, is next Tuesday.