the child's need to better understand the
impact of domestic abuse on the child.
In considering risk to children, the Domestic
Abuse Risk Assessment for Children (DARAC
- Barnardo's NI) 2021 is a helpful model.
Barnardos (2023) note that
The DARAC tool can be used by professionals
who are undertaking an assessment of the
risks to children living in a home where
domestic violence and abuse has already been
identified. The tool is designed for use in cases
where a male is perpetrating domestic violence
against a female. Professionals must
undertake the training provided by Barnardo's
in how to administer and interpret the tool.
The DARAC has been developed to help
practitioners:
• Identify risks to children from domestic
abuse and begin the risk assessment process
• Decide whether a case needs a
safeguarding response or family support