ASSESS THE RISK OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

 This risk assessment form aims to systematically evaluate the level of danger posed to a victim of domestic or family violence. It does so by identifying and scoring various risk factors related to the offender's behavior, the victim's vulnerabilities, the presence of children, and specific situational factors. The total score then categorizes the overall risk as standard, medium, or high, providing a framework for intervention and safety planning. 

 The form uses a scoring system where each identified behavior of the offender, such as threats, physical assaults, use of weapons, or breaches of restraining orders, is assigned a maximum score. These scores reflect the severity of the behavior. Additionally, the form assesses the offender’s personality characteristics (e.g., controlling behavior), situational factors (e.g., access to weapons, substance misuse), and history (e.g., prior violence) to create a comprehensive risk profile. It focuses on the maximum score for each item rather than attempting to create a nuanced grading system. 

 Several factors related to the victim's situation and perception can significantly increase risk. These include the victim's expressed fear of the offender, their belief that the offender could kill them, and whether they report an escalation in the violence. The form also takes into account vulnerabilities such as isolation (geographic, cultural, or imposed by the offender), mental health issues, substance abuse, physical or cognitive disabilities, and financial or care dependencies on the offender. 

 The presence of children and their circumstances within the family are a significant part of the assessment. The form considers factors such as whether children are present during incidents of violence, are under school age, are threatened or harmed by the offender, express fear of the offender, or refuse to have contact with the offender. Even the offender's access to children is noted as a risk factor, which underscores the significant impact that violence can have on a child's safety and well-being. 

 These are significant situational risk factors because they often trigger heightened violence. The form specifically addresses recent separations or a victim's desire to separate, pregnancy or recent birth, and the presence of a new or perceived partner. These circumstances can escalate violence because they may be seen by the offender as a loss of control, threat to their ego, or an act of defiance, thereby increasing the danger to the victim. 

A "High Risk" classification (a score of 45 or more in the “Past Month” column only) signifies an urgent and elevated danger to the victim. This categorization means that the victim is at an immediate and significant risk of severe harm, possibly even lethal violence. A "High Risk" determination should trigger immediate and comprehensive safety planning, including involving law enforcement, shelters, legal services, and other resources to ensure the victim's immediate safety. 

 Isolation, whether geographical, cultural, or actively imposed by the offender, significantly increases the risk to a victim. Isolation limits the victim's access to support networks such as family, friends, and community resources, making it harder to seek help or escape abuse. This lack of external support makes the victim more vulnerable and dependent on the abuser, increasing their risk of being subjected to harm or violence without anyone knowing or being able to intervene. 

 This risk assessment form evaluates a wide range of abusive behaviors beyond just physical violence. It includes threats of violence and weapons use, stalking, sexual violence, coercive control, and financial dependence, highlighting that domestic violence is multi-faceted. The form recognizes that any of these forms of abuse can significantly increase the risk of harm to the victim.