Seen and Heard: Supporting Older Survivors of Intimate Partner Violence
Webinar event date: 
mar 13, 2026 11:00 am EDT
Webinar Presenters: 
Shelley Murray BSW MSW RSW

Shelley Murray is a registered social worker and recently retired from the Government of New Brunswick after 38 years of service.  She completed her BSW at St. Thomas University in 1987 and 26 years later an MSW from Dalhousie University.  She worked in adult services program, foster home program and child protection before joining the Dept. of Justice as a court social worker.  Assessing clients for intimate partner violence was a key role of the court social worker.  After 16 years as a court social worker, in 2009 Shelley joined Women’s Equality in the Violence Prevention and Community Partnership Unit.  Shelley worked with government and community partners to implement government actions to address gender-based violence.  Most recently, she worked with a dedicated team to support the development of community-based sexual violence services.  Shelley has been a member of the NBASW since 1987 and held positions at both the chapter and provincial level.  She is a life-long learner and believes strongly in seeking out educational opportunities and incorporating knowledge into practice.

Description

This webinar explores the unique experiences of older survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV) and the challenges they face in seeking support. Participants will learn about key barriers to disclosure and help-seeking among older adults, including age-related, social, and systemic factors. The session will introduce trauma- and violence-informed approaches to intervention, highlighting practical strategies that promote safety, dignity, and empowerment. Participants will also examine screening and risk assessment processes relevant to working with older survivors of IPV, with attention to identifying risk, responding appropriately, and supporting informed decision-making.

This webinar is intended to increase awareness of intimate partner violence among older adults. Professionals will:

  • Learn key barriers to disclosure and help-seeking faced by older survivors of IPV.
  • Identify trauma- and violence-informed strategies appropriate for intervention with older survivors of IPV.
  • Review screening and risk assessment processes relevant to older survivors of IPV.