How can practitioners protect children in cases of domestic violence?

In a conference held by the Social Services Inspectorate of England and Wales it was identified that Social work has come rather late to the discovery of the impact of domestic violence (Social Services Inspectorate, 1995, p.39, citied in Stanley, 1997, p.135). Baker (2005, p.281) highlights how a lack of research surrounding the impact of domestic violence has resulted in a paucity effect with regards to the provision of services concerning children and young people witnessing domestic violence. Presently, it is becoming an ever increasing occurrence in children and families social work to encounter cases regarding the welfare of a child in a domestic situation in which violence is present. Therefore in this literature review I will discuss the impact DV has on children and the policies and procedures in place to safeguard them….(short extract)