The “Safe Nest Group” pilot project: Early intervention for mothers and infants leaving family violence

 

Aims

The specific aims were to assess pre- to post-intervention changes in:

• maternal depression, stress and anxiety
• trauma symptoms experienced by mothers
• relational withdrawal behaviours in the infants
• the quality of the relationship between mothers and their infants.

A secondary aim was to explore the mothers’ personal experiences with the SNG program, including the perceived outcomes for them and their children and their satisfaction with the program’s content and delivery.

Methods

This pilot project involved a single group study with pre-, post-, and follow-up assessments, along with a qualitative component. Adult women and their children (aged 0 to 3 years) who were currently living in refuges or other stable residential housing were eligible for the study.

Participants:

• included 17 women
• completed questionnaires about themselves and their children
• took part in parent–infant observation sessions before, directly after and then one month after the group program.

Other activities and adjustments:

• Mothers were interviewed about their experiences with the program.
• Modifications were made to follow COVID-19 safety protocols as per Victorian Government regulations.

Significance

The project produced findings and implications for the SNG pilot program, offering practical recommendations on key supports to help participants engage in the program, as well as suggestions for further development and evaluation.