Dr Lauren Lines
RN, BN(hons), MN, PhD
What if all children lived in safe, strong families and communities that enabled them to reach their full potential?
I am a nursing researcher passionate about achieving this vision. My research focuses on interdisciplinary approaches that build on the strengths of families and communities to safeguard children and prevent abuse and neglect. In particular, my work explores how nursing and midwifery professionals contribute to ensuring all children have the best start to life. Learn more about my work by checking out my current projects and publications.
My Research
Educating Future Workforce Project
2023
Health and welfare professionals are core to interprofessional prevention and early intervention that supports children to thrive in their own families, communities and cultures. However, little is known about whether current undergraduate (preservice) education adequately equips nurses, midwives and social workers for interprofessional practice to seamlessly and comprehensively meet families' needs. This project maps the nature and scope of existing published international evidence, and explores current practice in Australian universities. The project will conclude with online roundtables to discuss implications and future directions with key stakeholders.
Supporting not reporting: Co-designing partnerships with mothers experiencing adversity
2023-2024
This project identifies ways of providing non-stigmatising, therapeutic care for mothers during pregnancy and early motherhood (0-5 years). Having a baby is transformative, but is also a time of increased support needs for women. Social pressure to be a ‘good’ mother means mothers often feel judged for reaching out. Challenges are intensified for mothers from marginalised groups, including women experiencing violence/abuse, racism, mental illness or disability, who are more likely to experience child protection intervention. Nurturing non-stigmatising, supportive partnerships is essential for effective early support for mothers and babies. However, professionals are not always equipped for supportive partnerships when faced with complex social situations, lack of intersectoral collaboration and balancing children’s safety with women’s support. As such, this project draws upon women’s and professionals' perspectives to explore what change is needed to promote supportive, empathetic care for mothers.
Contact Me
Thanks for your interest in my research. For more information, or to find out how you can be involved please get in touch!