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Date: April 29, 2024 Mon
Time: 9:57 pm
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Results for domestic violence (u.k.)
29 results foundAuthor: Stanley, Nicky Title: Children and Families Experiencing Domestic Violence: Police and Children's Social Servies' Responses Summary: In England and Wales, the Adoption and Children Act 2002 amended the definition of significant harm provided by the Children Act 1989, adding a new category of impairment suffered from seeing or hearing the ill-treatment of another. Since domestic violence and children's exposure to it represent a widespread social problem, this amendment has acted to draw a potentially large group of families within the remit of children's social services. The growing number of police notifications to children's social services of domestic violence incidents where children are involved and the pressures that this has created have been noted by a range of commentators in the U.K., North America and Australia. This research examined both the notification process itself and the subsequent service pathways followed by families brought to the attention of children's social services in this way. It also explored which other agencies contributed to services for families experiencing domestic violence and captured young people's, survivors' and perpetrators' views of services. Details: London: National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children, 2010. 267p. Source: Year: 2010 Country: United Kingdom URL: Shelf Number: 118270 Keywords: Domestic Violence (U.K.)Family Violence (U.K.) |
Author: Gangoli, Geetanjali Title: Forced Marriage and Domestic Violence Among South Asian Communities in North East England Summary: This study looks at forced marriages and domestic violence within South Asian communities in Newcastle, Sunderland and South Tyneside, and examines the following research questions: • Experiences, hopes and perceptions of marriage among South Asian women and men. • Experiences of domestic violence in arranged, forced and love marriages, and links between forced marriage and domestic violence. • Identification of areas for positive development for agencies and organisations. The report is divided into six sections. The first section places the report in the context of current debates on the subject, and explains the methodology. Section 2 concentrates on the mapping and assessment of domestic violence services for Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) communities in Sunderland and forced marriage services in Sunderland, Newcastle and South Tyneside. Section 3 examines the experiences of married women and men. Section 4 analyses the experiences and expectations of single women and men and young people. Section 5 examines the views of community leaders. Section 6 concludes the report by drawing out recommendations for action and research from this study and points to gaps in services and knowledge. Details: Bristol, UK: School for Policy Studies, University of Bristol; London: Northern Rock Foundation, 2006. 35p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed December 17, 2010 at: http://www.bris.ac.uk/sps/research/projects/completed/2006/rj4334/rj4334finalreport.pdf Year: 2006 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.bris.ac.uk/sps/research/projects/completed/2006/rj4334/rj4334finalreport.pdf Shelf Number: 120544 Keywords: Domestic Violence (U.K.)Forced Marriage |
Author: Cordis Bright Consulting Title: Research into Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conferences (MARACs) Summary: MARACs are multi-agency meetings where statutory and voluntary agency representatives share information about high risk victims of domestic abuse in order to produce a coordinated action plan to increase victim safety. The role of the MARAC is to provide a forum for effective information sharing and partnership working amongst a diverse range of adult and child focussed services in order to enhance the safety of high risk victims and their children. There are currently around 250 MARACs in operation across England and Wales. This study was commissioned by the Home Office as part of a wider review of MARACs which aimed to improve understanding of how MARACs are working and potential areas of development, including the case for putting MARACs on a statutory basis. The full review can be accessed at http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/science-research/research-statistics/publications/home-office-research-reports/ (Home Office Research Report 55 “Supporting high risk victims of domestic violence: a review of Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conferences (MARACs)”) This report presents: Findings from the national survey of MARACs. A summary of key findings from the case study research. Details: London: Cordis Bright Limited, 2011. 109p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed July 15, 2011 at: http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/publications/science-research-statistics/research-statistics/crime-research/horr55/horr55-technical-annex?view=Binary Year: 2011 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/publications/science-research-statistics/research-statistics/crime-research/horr55/horr55-technical-annex?view=Binary Shelf Number: 122069 Keywords: CollaborationDomestic Violence (U.K.)Family ViolenceRisk AssessmentVictims of Domestic Violence |
Author: Nicholas, Sian Title: Supporting High-Risk Victims of Domestic Violence: A Review of Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conferences (MARACs) Summary: Multi-agency risk assessment conferences are multi-agency meetings where statutory and voluntary agency representatives share information about high-risk victims of domestic abuse in order to produce a co-ordinated action plan to increase victim safety. The agencies that attend MARACs will vary but are likely to include, for example: the Police, Probation, Independent Domestic Violence Advisers (IDVAs), Children's Services, health and housing. There are approximately 250 MARACs currently in operation across England and Wales. This report brings together evidence from a range of sources in order to explore: existing evidence for effectiveness and cost effectiveness of MARACs; how the MARAC model currently operates within the wider response to domestic violence; variation in current practice amongst MARACs; and potential areas for future development. Details: London: Home Office, 2011. 68p. Source: Internet Resource: Research Report 55: Accessed July 15, 2011 at: http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/publications/science-research-statistics/research-statistics/crime-research/horr55/horr55-report?view=Binary Year: 2011 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/publications/science-research-statistics/research-statistics/crime-research/horr55/horr55-report?view=Binary Shelf Number: 122073 Keywords: CollaborationDomestic Violence (U.K.)Family ViolenceRisk AssessmentVictims of Domestic Violence |
Author: Burgess, Gemma Title: Domestic Violence -- Assistance for Adults Without Dependent Children Summary: Anecdotal evidence has suggested that adults who are fleeing domestic violence are often not accepted as being vulnerable and having priority need, and consequently the help they get from a local authority may be limited to advice and assistance to help them secure accommodation for themselves. Concern has been expressed that such a response may put these people at risk of having to return to a violent situation. This study aimed to gather firm evidence on the extent to which adults without dependent children who have to leave their homes as a result of domestic violence, and who seek housing assistance from a local authority, receive sufficient assistance to ensure they do not have to return to accommodation where they would be at risk of violence. The study sought to consider and provide evidence on the provision of both statutory and non-statutory assistance, provided directly by local authorities and partner providers. Where adults without dependent children do not receive a response that ensures they do not have to return to accommodation where they would be at risk of violence, this study aimed to establish why this is the case, and to identify the consequences for these adults. It gathered evidence to establish whether there are any particular groups of adults who are more likely to receive appropriate help to ensure they do not have to return to accommodation where they would be at risk of violence, and whether there are particular groups who may be at greater risk of not getting the assistance they need. The four key objectives of this study were to establish: 1. Estimates of the number and circumstances of adults who have to leave their home because of a risk of violence, who seek housing assistance from a local authority and who receive sufficient assistance to ensure they do not need to return to accommodation where they would be at risk of violence. 2. Estimates of the number and circumstances of adults who have to leave their home because of a risk of violence, who seek housing assistance from a local authority and who do not receive sufficient assistance to ensure they do not need to return to accommodation where they would be at risk of violence. 3. The types of housing assistance being provided to such adults, both statutory and non statutory. 4. Where such adults are not getting the assistance they need to ensure they do not need to return to accommodation where they are at risk of violence, what are the reasons for this, and the implications? Do they, for example, return to a violent situation, or do they make alternative arrangements? Details: London: Department for Communities and Local Government, 2011. 153p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed July 18, 2011 at: http://www.cchpr.landecon.cam.ac.uk/Downloads/DV%20final%20report.pdf Year: 2011 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.cchpr.landecon.cam.ac.uk/Downloads/DV%20final%20report.pdf Shelf Number: 122093 Keywords: Domestic Violence (U.K.)Family ViolenceHousingIntimate Partner ViolenceVictims of Domestic Violence, Services for |
Author: Carter, Rachel Title: Stella Project Evaluation: September 2006 Summary: Through innovative and positive approaches, the Stella Project works to promote, at practice and policy level, the development of inclusive, integrated service provision for survivors and perpetrators of domestic violence who experience problematic substance use. The Stella Project supports drug, alcohol and domestic violence agencies to effect sustained change in service delivery and outcomes. At a strategic level, the project works to influence and support policy development with the view of catalysing change on the ground. Underlying the project’s approach is the belief that where domestic violence and substance use overlap, interventions undertaken in partnership across the sectors will improve the safety of clients and prevent ineffective repeat interventions. This report summarises the findings of an evaluation of the effectiveness of the training and events which the Stella Project has delivered over the past four years. In addition, it provides recommendations for future directions for the work of the Stella Project. Section one introduces the history and achievements of the Stella Project. This is followed by a description of the aims, objectives and activities of the Project including a detailed outline of the different training programmes offered. Section two outlines the purpose of the evaluation and the methodology used which includes post training and conference evaluation forms, email questionnaires for past trainees and semi-structured telephone interviews. 704 post training evaluations, 73 post conference evaluations and 32 email questionnaires were returned. In addition 8 semi-structured interviews were conducted. Section three presents the findings of the evaluation. Overall, the findings reveal there is a high level of satisfaction with the range of services offered by the Stella Project. Details: London: The Stella Project, 2006. 40p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed September 20, 2011 at: http://www.avaproject.org.uk/media/24057/stella%20evaluation%202006.pdf Year: 2006 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.avaproject.org.uk/media/24057/stella%20evaluation%202006.pdf Shelf Number: 122792 Keywords: Battered WomenDomestic Violence (U.K.)Victim ServicesViolence Against Women |
Author: Kelly, Liz Title: Islands in the Stream: An Evaluation of Four London Independent Domestic Violence Advocacy Schemes Summary: This report presents the results of an evaluation of four Independent Domestic Violence Advocacy (IDVA) schemes in London, which are based in different settings: in a police station; hospital A&E department; a community based domestic violence project; and a women-only violence against women (VAW) organisation. The evaluation was commissioned by the Trust for London (formerly known as City Parochial Foundation) and the Henry Smith Charity to run alongside their joint special initiative on IDVAs, under which grants totalling £900,000 over three years, increased to £1.6 million with statutory funding, were made to the four schemes with the aim of strengthening the impact of this recent innovation in service provision. The current national definition of IDVA devised by Co-ordinated Action Against Domestic Abuse (CAADA)[1] is: The main purpose of an IDVA is to address the safety of high risk domestic abuse victims and their children. Serving as a victim’s primary point of contact, IDVAs normally work with their clients from the point of crisis to assess the level of risk, discuss the range of suitable options and develop co-ordinated safety plans. IDVAs are pro-active in implementing the safety plans, which include practical steps to protect victims and their children, as well as longer-term solutions. These plans will include actions from the Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conference (MARAC) as well as sanctions and remedies available through the criminal and civil courts, housing options and services available through other organisations. IDVAs offer independent support and work over the short- to medium-term to put victims on the path to long-term safety (CAADA, n.d.) The practice principles for IDVAs combine practical and emotional support based on a ‘care pathway’ developed by CAADA (2006) and subsequent Westminster government guidance (Home Office, 2008) define the key elements of IDVA schemes as: independent, professional and trained;• aware of all safety options; • able to offer crisis intervention and risk assessment; • work in partnership; • delivery of measurable outcomes (e.g. reduced repeat victimisation, fewer withdrawals and • increased reporting of children at risk from harm). It is with these criteria in mind, that this evaluation of the four schemes – DVSS (Barnet), REACH (Lambeth/Southwark), and IDVA posts at the nia project (Hackney) and NAADV (Newham) was undertaken. Details: London: Child and Women Abuse Studies Unit, London Metropolitan University, 2011. 149p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed September 20, 2011 at: http://www.cwasu.org/ Year: 2011 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.cwasu.org/ Shelf Number: 122799 Keywords: Domestic Violence (U.K.)Intimate Partner ViolenceViolence Against Women |
Author: Thiara, Ravi K. Title: Domestic Violence, Child Contact and Post-Separation Violence: Issues for South Asian and African-Caribbean Women and Children: a Report of Findings Summary: This report details research undertaken with South Asian and African-Caribbean mothers who had experienced domestic violence and have since separated from their partners. The research reviews the knowledge base around domestic violence and child contact and looks at the particular issues experienced by women in these communities. It reports on the findings from interviews with 19 children, 45 women, and 71 professionals. Details: London: NSPCC - National Society for the Prevention of Cruely to Children, 2012. 160p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed February 3, 2012 at This report details research undertaken with South Asian and African-Caribbean mothers who had experienced domestic violence and have since separated from their partners. The research reviews the knowledge base around domestic violence and child contact and looks at the particular issues experienced by women in these communities. It reports on the findings from interviews with 19 children, 45 women, and 71 professionals. Year: 2012 Country: United Kingdom URL: Shelf Number: 123953 Keywords: Children, Crimes AgainstDomestic Violence (U.K.)Female VictimsJuvenile VictimsMinority Groups |
Author: Galvani, Sarah Title: Supporting Families Affected by Substance Use and Domestic Violence Summary: Domestic violence and abuse is more likely than not to occur within intimate partner relationships where one partner has a problem with alcohol or other drugs (see Galvani 2010 for review). High numbers of people presenting to alcohol, drug and domestic violence services have children (ACMD 2003, Manning et al. 2009) and live within families whose members are doubly exposed to these potentially negative and damaging behaviours. Furthermore family members, be they partners, parents or children, can also be the perpetrators of domestic violence and abuse. At a time when Government policy is to ‘Think Family’ (DCSF 2009), it is vital that there is evidence from the people living and working with the overlapping issues of domestic abuse and substance use on which to base policy and practice development. This collaborative two-stage project between Adfam, Stella Project, and the University of Bedfordshire is designed to build the research evidence base with two groups of family members whose needs have not yet been adequately recognised; young people and adult family members who also provide family support services (Family Member Support Providers (FMSPs)). Stage 1 is the research project reported here, stage 2 is the development of resources for and with children and young people. The aims of the research project were: To explore the views and perspectives of family members of substance users on the relationship between alcohol, drugs and domestic abuse To develop practice and policy recommendations based on these findings and the wider literature To establish what support and resources family members need on these issues. Details: Bedfordshire, UK: Tilda Goldberg Centre for Social Work and Social Care, University of Bedfordshire, 2010. 75p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed April 6, 2012 at: http://www.adfam.org.uk/docs/adfam_dvreport.pdf Year: 2010 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.adfam.org.uk/docs/adfam_dvreport.pdf Shelf Number: 124857 Keywords: Alcohol and ViolenceDomestic Violence (U.K.)Family ViolenceSubstance Abuse |
Author: McCoy, Ellie Title: A Consultation with Young People About the Impact of Domestic Violence (Abuse) in their Families and their Formative Relationships Summary: Domestic abuse (often referred to as Intimate Partner Violence) is a recognised global public health concern. It is often defined as behaviour that involves physical, psychological or sexual harm within an intimate relationship and can also include youth violence, child maltreatment, elder abuse and sexual violence. Domestic abuse can also occur within the family; the Department of Health estimates that 750,000 children experience domestic abuse annually. Research examining domestic abuse tends to focus on adult relationships; however it is important to consider young people and their relationships. Adolescence is an important time as this is often when people begin to form intimate and formative relationships. It is therefore an essential stage for initiating domestic abuse prevention work. There is a body of UK research on adult female’s experiences, and a smaller amount on children’s experiences, but little is known about adolescent’s experiences of partner violence and the research that has been conducted tends to originate from the USA. Research suggests that it is essential to include this through detailed examination of young people’s views and experiences in order to recognise young people’s views and actions in their own right. The Coalition Government has recently launched a paper ‘A call to end violence against women and girls’ outlining how they plan to tackle violence against females, with the vision of creating a society in which no female should have to live in fear of violence. Domestic abuse is also a priority locally. In Liverpool, Citysafe (Liverpool’s Community Safety Partnership) prioritises a number of key issues to tackle, one of which is to reduce serious violence, which includes domestic abuse, and to develop an understanding of the issues young people feel affect them in relation to domestic abuse. Citysafe therefore commissioned the Centre for Public, Liverpool John Moores University, to undertake a consultation, to speak with young people around their views and experiences of domestic abuse. The objectives of the research were: • to learn what the issues are for young people in relation to domestic violence (abuse); • to understand how young people view domestic violence (abuse) (in all its forms) in family and intimate partner relationships; and • to use the findings from the project to inform an education programme through ‘It’s Not Okay’. A qualitative study was undertaken to fulfil the research objectives through a series of focus groups with young people. Agencies across Liverpool providing services to young people were contacted and a total of 119 young people aged between 14 and 24 years were invited to attend the focus groups. Each focus group lasted approximately one hour and was conducted by two researchers. Verbal and written consent was obtained to digitally record each focus group session, and the young people were asked to complete a basic demographic questionnaire. In total, 93 young people attended the 14 focus groups. Just over half of participants were male (n=52, 55.9%) with the majority aged 16 and 17 years (n=22 and n=25 respectively). The majority defined their ethnicity as White English (n=72, 77.4%). However minority groups were represented. Ten percent of participants stated that they had a disability. Almost a third (30.1%, n=28) stated they had religious beliefs, 43.0% (n=40) stated that they had no religious beliefs and 26.9% (n=25) preferred not to say. The majority of the young people stated their sexual orientation as Heterosexual (n=70, 75.3%), 17.2% (n=17) preferred not to answer and 7.5% (n=7) stated their sexual orientation as Bisexual, Gay or Lesbian. Overall, the young people involved in the consultation had a good understanding of what domestic abuse is, they could state different types of abuse and who they thought it could happen to. They recognised that it could involve physical, psychological and sexual abuse. In acknowledging these different forms of abuse, the young people felt it should be referred to as domestic abuse rather than domestic violence. At all groups the young people acknowledged that domestic abuse can occur within the family and they placed an emphasis on it being something happening within a house, hence the word domestic. They believed domestic abuse could happen to anyone; however they felt that it is portrayed as happening more often to women. Young people viewed domestic abuse at home as having devastating effects on children; leaving them scared and affected by their experiences into later life. Although participants believed that the effects in adulthood largely depended on the person and how they handled their experiences. It was discussed that children affected by domestic abuse could become perpetrators and victims themselves when in adult relationships, however, the young people also acknowledged that witnessing domestic abuse could make you more determined to not act in this manner yourself. The young people’s knowledge appeared to be gained from what they had seen on TV and from their own personal and friends’ experiences. Not many of the young people had been given any formal training or teaching on the subject, although many of them thought it would be beneficial to have learnt about it. Although there was good knowledge on some areas of domestic abuse, there did appear to be a lack of awareness around the more subtle aspects, such as controlling behaviour. Many of the young people did not see certain controlling behaviours as abusive. The young people also demonstrated a lack of knowledge about where to go for advice; many were not aware of any domestic abuse services and many would not go to a professional for help. Therefore, it appeared that most young people would rather seek support from someone they know or are comfortable with, rather than access a website, ring a help line or speak to a stranger. Learning about domestic abuse was viewed as important and school was thought to be the best setting in which to teach it. The young people expressed preferences on programme content and length; they thought domestic abuse issues should be covered in lessons over a number of weeks and that programmes should incorporate all aspects of domestic abuse, not just the physical violence aspects. Young people expressed mixed views on whether they should be taught about healthy relationships. Some young people thought this was essential whereas others thought you could not teach young people how to have good relationships. Interactive material and activities such as group discussions, DVDs and talks by people affected by domestic abuse were viewed as approaches that would help them learn most effectively and felt that a programme should be realistic and modern in order to hold their attention and allow them to speak freely. Details: Liverpool: Centre for Public Health, Liverpool John Moores University, 2011. 57p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed May 3, 2012 at: http://www.cph.org.uk/showPublication.aspx?pubid=754 Year: 2011 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.cph.org.uk/showPublication.aspx?pubid=754 Shelf Number: 125135 Keywords: Children, Exposure to ViolenceCycle of ViolenceDomestic Violence (U.K.)Family ViolenceIntimate Partner Violence |
Author: Farmer, Elly Title: Beyond Violence: Breaking Cycles of Domestic Abuse Summary: This report argues that domestic abuse is a shocking and disturbingly prevalent hallmark of social breakdown – yet it exists inside every community. Very serious forms of domestic abuse are not uncommon in the UK: on average two women are killed every week by their partner or ex (in the year 2009/10, 94 women were killed and 21 men were killed by their partner or ex). Domestic violence and abuse can also lead to fractured bones, extensive bruising, severe burns, chronic pain, stillbirths and suicide. One in four women and one in seven men report being abused by their partner or ex; and one in four young adults lived with domestic abuse when they were children. Domestic abuse accounts for approximately eight per cent of the total burden of disease in women aged between 18 and 44 years, and is a larger contributor to ill health than high blood pressure, smoking and weight. Even after the violence is over, victims are more likely to suffer from coronary heart disease, gastrointestinal problems, sexually transmitted infections and chronic pain. Mental scars can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety and substance misuse. Less obvious but equally serious effects are isolation, lost opportunities and wasted potential. It impacts upon victims’ employment, takes years off their lives and increases their vulnerability to further abuse. The cost of all forms of abuse is approximately £15.7 billion per year. Abuse ranges from physical violence used by both partners in a couple during conflict to a strategic pattern of control, torture and subjugation inflicted by one partner upon the other. Although abuse that conforms to a pattern of coercive control inflicts particular harm on victims, it is not clear whether controlling forms of violence have more of an impact upon children living in the household than violent fights between parents. Through its threat to their caregiver(s), all violence and abuse between parents profoundly threatens a child’s sense of safety. Our findings, analysis and solutions are the result of in-depth examination of the research literature, consultation with people in the field of domestic abuse, work with adults and children who have suffered its impact, and original polling. The report applies a comprehensive, relationship-based understanding of domestic abuse to find solutions that have radical potential to end the problem and its harms. We do not address forms of domestic abuse specific to ethnic, sexual orientation, age, immigrant or other groups. Nor is this an exhaustive review of existing good practice, although reference is made to many such examples upon which our solutions are designed to build. For them to be most effective they need to be embedded within a wider, in-depth response to social disadvantage and family dysfunction. Details: London: The Centre for Social Justice, 2012. 159p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed July 26, 2012 at: http://www.centreforsocialjustice.org.uk/client/media/DA%20Full%20report.pdf Year: 2012 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.centreforsocialjustice.org.uk/client/media/DA%20Full%20report.pdf Shelf Number: 125785 Keywords: Abused WivesDomestic Violence (U.K.)Family ViolenceIntimate Partner Violence |
Author: Rooney, Johnathan Title: Assaults in the Home in Lancashire: An Analysis of Emergency Department Data, January 2009 to December 2011 Summary: Domestic violence remains an important public and social health concern in the UK. The British Crime Survey from 2010/11 reports that around 30% of women and 17% of men aged 16-59 had experienced some form of non-sexual partner abuse (emotional or financial abuse, threats or physical force) since the age of 16, and 7% and 5% respectively in the past year. The effects of domestic violence can be severe and widespread for the victims and their family. In addition it has been estimated that domestic violence costs the UK economy around £23 billion per year. The prevention of domestic violence is therefore a continued focus for criminal justice and public health bodies. This report provides an indication of the burden of assaults in the home on emergency departments (EDs), and residents of Lancashire over the three-year period January 2009 to December 2011. It uses data on assaults in the home from all EDs in Lancashire. Details: Liverpool: Centre for Public Health, Liverpool John Moores University, 2012. 6p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed August 7, 2012 at: http://www.nwph.net/nwpho/Publications/LancashirehomeApril%202012.pdf Year: 2012 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.nwph.net/nwpho/Publications/LancashirehomeApril%202012.pdf Shelf Number: 125891 Keywords: Domestic Violence (U.K.)Family ViolenceHospital Emergency DepartmentsIntimate Partner Violence |
Author: Warren, Ian Title: Assaults in the Home in Greater Manchester: An Analysis of Emergency Department data, 2009 to 2011 Summary: 1 Domestic violence remains an important public and social health concern in the UK. The British Crime Survey from 2010/11 reports that around 30% of women and 17% of men aged 16-59 had experienced some form of non-sexual partner abuse (emotional or financial abuse, threats or physical force) since the age of 16, and 7% and 5% respectively in the past year (1). The effects of domestic violence can be severe and widespread for the victims and their family. In addition it has been estimated that domestic violence costs the UK economy around £23 billion per year (2). The prevention of domestic violence is therefore a continued focus for criminal justice and public health bodies (3). This report provides an indication of the burden of assaults in the home on EDs in Greater Manchester for the 3-year period from January 2009 to December 2011. Data is provided for all attendances to EDs in Greater Manchester which have been recorded as assaults and occurred in the home. Details: Liverpool: Centre for Public Health, Liverpool John Moores University, 2012. 6p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed August 7, 2012 at: http://www.nwph.net/nwpho/Publications/Manchesterhome%20April%202012.pdf Year: 2012 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.nwph.net/nwpho/Publications/Manchesterhome%20April%202012.pdf Shelf Number: 125892 Keywords: Domestic Violence (U.K.)Family ViolenceHospital Emergency DepartmentsIntimate Partner Violence |
Author: Humphreys, Cathy Title: Prevention not Prediction? A preliminary evaluation of the Metropolitan Police Domestic Violence Risk Assessment Model (SPECSS+) Summary: The implementation of The Metropolitan Police Domestic Violence SPECSS+ Risk, Identification, Assessment and Management model (SPECSS+ model) is at an early stage. The emphasis of this report has been on a process evaluation which can shed light on how the implementation of the SPECSS+ risk assessment model is proceeding; what lessons can be learnt to inform future phases of implementation; and whether and under what circumstances it could be recommended to other forces. The evaluation team was asked to address the following questions in relation to the SPECSS+ risk assessment model: • Does it comply with the ACPO guidelines on risk assessment? • Does it address victims’ needs in terms of risk? • Does it complement safety planning? • Can the model be managed within force limitations? • Can it be applied irrespective of geography, community or policing variables? The SPECSS+ risk assessment model was developed through a series of consultations between the Met and multi-agency partners based on the evidence from the London multi-agency murder reviews and serious sexual and physical assaults (Richards, 2004; Richards, 2003). It is a three-stage model which involves an initial response, an assessment of risk and intervention to manage the risks identified. The assessment of risk is based on six prominent risk factors outlined in SPECSS+ (Separation (child contact), Pregnancy (new birth), Escalation, Culture (community isolation and barriers to reporting), Stalking and Sexual Assault). A further six additional factors are also included as prompts for front-line (FL) officers to consider (abuse of children, abuse of pets, access to weapons, either victim or perpetrator being suicidal, drug and alcohol problems, jealous and controlling behaviour, threats to kill, and mental health problems). To support the implementation of the risk assessment model the 124D form was developed for use in London, the VIVID data collection system for use in West Yorkshire, and the MPS Domestic Violence Policy and Standard Operating Procedures written. Risk assessment and risk management processes also need to comply with the ACPO Guidance on Investigating Domestic Violence (2004), which provides operational, tactical and strategic advice – the priorities of the police service in responding to domestic violence. Evaluation design To meet the evaluation brief a multi-methodological design was adopted by the evaluation team. Research was conducted in both The Met and West Yorkshire police forces. In each area, two police divisions were chosen as the evaluation sites. The following process was then undertaken: • Semi-structured interviews with 10 ‘key informants’ who were either currently or recently involved with the development of the risk assessment model. • 71 structured interviews with FL officers. • 20 face-to-face interviews with senior and specialist officers. • 7 interviews with partner agencies. • 4 interviews with victims. • Analysis of 120 case files drawn from the 4 different research sites. • Aggregate data analysis provided by West Yorkshire and the two London sites on specified variables such as: total number of incidents; total number of arrests; number of cases at each risk assessment level. • Documentary analysis of the ACPO risk assessment guidance was undertaken to assess the extent of harmony or contradiction between the guidance and the implementation of the SPECSS+ model. Details: Coventry, UK: Centre for the Study of Safety and Wellbeing, University of Warwick and Child and Woman Abuse Studies Unit, London Metropolitan University, 2005. 88 p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed September 29, 2012 at: http://www2.warwick.ac.uk/fac/soc/shss/swell/research/acpo_final_report.pdf Year: 2005 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www2.warwick.ac.uk/fac/soc/shss/swell/research/acpo_final_report.pdf Shelf Number: 103422 Keywords: Domestic Violence (U.K.)Famiily ViolenceRisk AssessmentViolence Against WomenViolence Risk Assessment Model |
Author: Holly, Jennifer Title: Promising Practices: Mental Health Trust Responses to Domestic Violence Summary: The links between experiences of trauma and psychological distress are well understood, with much research having been undertaken to explore the mental health sequelae to experiencing abuse in childhood, being the victim of sexual assault and rape, or witnessing violence in conflict settings (Golding, 1999; Harold and Howarth, 2004; Rees et al, 2011: Tanielian and Jaycox, 2008). In terms of domestic violence, the last decade has seen a significant growth in the understanding of survivors’ mental health problems being a “symptom of abuse” (Humphreys and Thiara, 2003). Female survivors of domestic violence experience markedly higher levels of depression, anxiety, eating disorders, self-harming and suicidal ideation than the general female population (Campbell, 2002; Dutton et al, 2005; Howard et al, 2010a). Unsurprisingly, reported rates of lifetime experiences of domestic violence among psychiatric patients is higher than the general population. Despite the high prevalence of domestic violence in the lives of the people who use mental health services, experiences of abuse are not routinely enquired about (Howard et al, 2010b). Furthermore, practice-based evidence collated through the Stella Project Mental Health Initiative, a three-year project funded by the Department of Health to look at models of supporting survivors who have mental health and/or substance use problems, suggests that neither the links between experiences of abuse and service users’ current mental health problems nor the risk of further abuse are routinely assessed within mental health services in England. This research was completed to ascertain what Mental Health Trusts in England are currently doing to address domestic violence and to identify areas of good practice. Details: London: AVA ( Against Violence and Abuse), 2012. 27p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed November 12, 2012 at http://www.avaproject.org.uk/media/106656/promising%20practices%20-%20mental%20health%20trust%20responses%20to%20domestic%20violence.pdf Year: 2012 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.avaproject.org.uk/media/106656/promising%20practices%20-%20mental%20health%20trust%20responses%20to%20domestic%20violence.pdf Shelf Number: 126915 Keywords: Domestic Violence (U.K.)Mental Health Services (U.K.)Victim Services (U.K.)Victims of CrimeViolence Against Women |
Author: Coy, Maddy Title: Picking Up the Pieces: Domestic Violence and Child Contact Summary: Whilst a minority (one in ten) of parental separations reach family courts in England and Wales as a means of settling disputes over the residence of, and contact with, children (ONS, 2008), domestic violence is the most common welfare issue raised in proceedings (Hunt & Macleod, 2008). Concern about how the family justice system responds to children having contact with fathers who have abused their mothers is not new. Specialist women’s support services have long highlighted that it is problematic to presume that the relationship between a child and abusive parent is unaffected by violence, and that contact proceedings are frequently invoked by perpetrators as a means of seeking to continue to control women and children. A wide range of studies has shown that judicial decisions about contact which fail to take safety into account endanger women and children physically and emotionally (e.g. Radford et al, 1997; Mullender et al, 2002; Harrison, 2008; Thiara, 2010; Thiara & Gill, 2012), and in some cases where courts have allowed unsupervised contact with violent men, children have been killed (Saunders, 2004). Yet a presumption that contact is always in the best interests of the child, combined with an increasing focus on fathers’ rights, casts long shadows over legal judgements, policy frameworks and individual cases. The research on which this report is based examines child contact proceedings as a legal process, to identify if, how and when domestic violence was presented before the court and then factored into judicial decision making. Drawing on in-depth interviews with women who had recently completed, or were currently undergoing, proceedings and a survey of legal professionals, the project built on an existing rich body of knowledge about child contact to highlight specific points where private law Children Act proceedings can enable women to protect themselves and their children, or facilitate perpetrators’ attempts to continue power and control. The recommendations we make highlight where the current legal process could be revised in order to make a significant difference to women and children’s safety and wellbeing. We also point to promising practices that could be integrated into systems and processes. A second aim of the research was to investigate the financial impact of involvement in proceedings for women who may have already been impoverished through financial abuse by their ex-partners and/or the expense of leaving their homes. Access to justice through family law remedies – whether in response to proceedings initiated by violent ex-partners or as a possibility for women to create safety buffers through the protection of court orders – is fundamentally dependent on available and sufficient resources. This is especially topical since reductions in central Government funding for legal aid will mean a reduction in the availability of legal aid for family law cases from April 2013, creating a further barrier to and burden on women. For women from minority communities, who may have fewer socio-economic and social resources, the diminished availability of legal aid has even more acute implications (Thiara & Gill, 2012). While explicitly asking about funding for legal representation, we also explored wider financial impacts here; to what extent preparing for court, attending hearings and facilitating contact affected women’s employment and income. This report is structured through the journey of contact proceedings, beginning from histories of violence and separation and ending with the aftermath. First we present a brief overview of the current evidence base on domestic violence and child contact to contextualise our own research. Details: London: Rights of Women and Child and Woman Abuse STudies Unit (London Metropolitan University), 2012. 91p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed November 20, 2012 at: http://www.rightsofwomen.org.uk/pdfs/Policy/Picking_Up_the_Pieces_Report_final.pdf Year: 2012 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.rightsofwomen.org.uk/pdfs/Policy/Picking_Up_the_Pieces_Report_final.pdf Shelf Number: 126944 Keywords: Child ProtectionChildren and ViolenceDomestic Violence (U.K.)Family Violence |
Author: Rennison, Claire Title: Evaluation of Safer Relationships Activity (SRA) Summary: The Safer Relationships Activity is a domestic abuse course that was introduced in West Yorkshire in August 2010. It was originally aimed at 18-30 year olds who were low to medium risk of harm and who were early in their offending careers. The aim was to address their behaviours and attitudes before this became entrenched. The criteria for domestic abuse programmes was changed in January 2011 so that only those of high risk of serious harm or complex cases where there were child concerns were eligible for IDAP. This has meant that the majority of cases have been given SRA since this change was introduced. It was originally intended for seven groups to run between September 2010 and April 2011 with a target of 80 completions for the year. Due to the low number of completed questionnaires and course completions the evaluation period was extended till the end of August 2011, with 15 groups completing. At the end of this period, all groups which had completed (n=17) were included in the evaluation. Since the Safer Relationship Activity started 501 individuals have been sentenced to it as part of their Order/Licence. Out of these, 188 individuals had started a SRA group of whom 53% (n=100) had successfully completed. The number of participants who started groups ranged between 11 and 18, with an average of 12 participants. The number of participants who successfully completed ranged between four and ten, with an average of six participants finishing a group. The total and average number of starts increased with each cohort. This increase did not have an effect on the numbers who completed which remained steady regardless of the number of people who started. The average number of participants who attended each session decreased, with a drop in numbers at session 2 and again at session 10. This again seems to support anecdotal evidence from tutors that if you have people engaged by the half way stage, then the majority will go on to successfully complete SRA. The percentage of absences recorded as being acceptable increased, with Cohort 3 having over a quarter (26%, n=10) and Cohort 4 having just under a quarter (24%, n=6) of the absences being classed as acceptable by Offender Managers. This appears to support anecdotal evidence from tutors who felt that in the latter groups more absences were being classed as acceptable. The number of sessions run for groups ranged between 14 to 16. The majority of groups appeared to be run for 15 sessions made up of the orientation session followed by 14 sessions. This was despite the guidance describing SRA as 16 sessions. The groups that ran for only 14 sessions including the orientation had appeared to combine sessions together due to the groups being held on a Monday and being disrupted by the Bank Holidays in April 2011. The majority of groups were run on an evening. Further investigation would be needed and more groups would need to run at alternative times in order to see if the time of the group had an impact on the numbers that completed. The number of starts after the criteria was opened up increased (n=92 starts before the change in criteria versus n=107 after the change in criteria). However a smaller proportion of people went on to successfully complete. After the change the percentage completion rate fell from 57% (n=52/92) to 45% (48/107). Details: West Yorkshire Probation Trust, 2012. 64p. Source: Internet Resource: Report Number 5 2011/12: Accessed April 5, 2013 at: www.westyorksprobation.org.uk Year: 2012 Country: United Kingdom URL: Shelf Number: 128265 Keywords: Domestic Violence (U.K.)Family ViolenceIntimate Partner ViolenceViolence Against Women |
Author: DrugScope Title: Making the Connection: Developing integrated approaches to domestic violence and substance misuse Summary: LDAN/DrugScope’s Domestic Violence project, funded by London Councils, took place over a four-year period, and focused on the development of a cross-sectoral network bringing together domestic violence and drug and alcohol services. As statistics set out in this briefing indicate, there are clear – though complex – links between domestic violence and substance misuse. However, services have not always worked effectively to address these links. The project aimed to tackle this gap, and to improve the quality of service provision for those affected by domestic violence and substance misuse, by bringing the two sectors together to discuss issues of common interest, provide practical information and support, and facilitate collaboration and partnership. At the heart of the project was an overall objective of supporting organisations to achieve a reduction in the impact and occurrence of domestic violence, abuse and repeat victimisation. Details: London: DrugScope, 2013. 23p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed June 1, 2013 at: http://www.drugscope.org.uk/Resources/Drugscope/Documents/PDF/Policy/DVReport.pdf Year: 2013 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.drugscope.org.uk/Resources/Drugscope/Documents/PDF/Policy/DVReport.pdf Shelf Number: 128895 Keywords: Domestic Violence (U.K.)Drug Abuse and CrimeSubstance Abuse TreatmentViolence Against Women |
Author: Great Britain. Home Office Title: Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme (DVDS) Pilot Assessment Summary: In 2012/13, a 14 month pilot to test a national Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme (DVDS) took place across four police force areas (Gwent, Wiltshire, Greater Manchester and Nottinghamshire). This report sets out the findings from an assessment of the pilot. Within existing legislation and common law, police have the power to disclose information to an individual, if it might help protect them, about previous violent offending by their partner. The DVDS pilot aimed to introduce a consistent process for this. The pilot tested two processes for disclosing this information, "Right to Ask‟ where a disclosure request is triggered by a member of the public directly contacting the police about a partner, and "Right to Know‟ where a disclosure request is triggered by police or partner agencies based on information that an individual is at risk of harm from their partner. Requests are subject to police checks before potentially being referred to a local multi-agency decision-making forum, where a decision is made about whether to make a disclosure. The forum must justify that there is "pressing need‟ for disclosure, and that a disclosure is lawful, necessary and proportionate to protect the potential victim from future crime. Aims and Approach This assessment aimed to capture views of the pilot to help understand how the process was working in practice and identify lessons learnt to inform any decisions about roll-out of the process. The assessment was not designed to consider any impact the scheme may have had on domestic abuse victims or estimate the "value for money‟ of the scheme. Specifically, the assessment aimed to understand: the nature of cases going through the scheme, including the volume and characteristics of applications and disclosures; perceptions of police officers and partner agencies involved in implementing the scheme, to capture lessons learnt; and experiences of those who requested and/or received a disclosure. This assessment drew on pilot police force monitoring data, focus groups with practitioners who delivered the scheme and a small number (38)2 of questionnaires completed by those who had applied for and/or received a disclosure. Further details on these methods are provided in the main report. Details: London: Home Office, 2013. 26p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed November 27, 2013 at: https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/260894/DVDS_assessment_report.pdf Year: 2013 Country: United Kingdom URL: https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/260894/DVDS_assessment_report.pdf Shelf Number: 131720 Keywords: Domestic Violence (U.K.)Family ViolenceViolence Against Women |
Author: Kelly, Liz Title: Evaluation of the Pilot of Domestic Violence Protection Orders Summary: Domestic Violence Protection Orders (DVPOs) were piloted in three police force areas in 2011-12. DVPOs are a new civil provision designed to provide immediate protection for victim-survivors of domestic violence where no other enforceable restrictions can be placed upon the perpetrator. This evaluation of the pilot suggests that DVPOs were generally seen positively by practitioners and victim-survivors and were associated with a reduction in re-victimisation, particularly when used in 'chronic' cases. While a negative cost impact was found over the pilot period, there are likely to be further benefits that the evaluation could not quantify (e.g. preventing escalating violence), and over the long term the benefits increase relative to costs. The evaluation recommends wider roll out of DVPOs. Domestic abuse or violence is a crime and should be reported to the police, there are also other organisations who can offer you help and support. Call 999 if it's an emergency or you're in immediate danger. The police take domestic violence seriously and will be able to help and protect you. If it's not an emergency, contact your local neighbourhood policing team. Details: London: Home Office, 2013. 79p. Source: Internet Resource: Home Office Research Report 76 : Accessed November 27, 2013 at: https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/260897/horr76.pdf Year: 2013 Country: United Kingdom URL: https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/260897/horr76.pdf Shelf Number: 131721 Keywords: Domestic Violence (U.K.)Protection OrdersVictims of Family ViolenceViolence Against Women |
Author: Harvey, Shannon Title: Case by Case: Refuge provision in London for survivors of domestic violence who use alcohol and other drugs or have mental health problems Summary: Not long after the inception of the Stella Project in 2002, a survey of Women's Aid refuges found that just 13% would always accept women with mental health or drug or alcohol needs, while another 48% said that they would sometimes take these women, depending on other factors (Barron, 2004). Over the intervening decade, we have witnessed greater recognition of the intersections between the issues and seen many examples of increased partnership working across the domestic violence, substance use and mental health sectors. Despite the many positive changes, however, one of the most persistent concerns raised by practitioners is the lack of refuge space for women who are affected by substance use and/or mental ill-health. This study aimed to provide an updated picture of access to refuge services for this group of survivors. This was achieved through: - Telephone or face-to-face interviews with London-based refuge service providers (n=30) about their policies on accommodating women with drug and alcohol and/or mental health problems. - Freedom of information requests to all London boroughs (excluding the City of Westminster) in April 2012 and August 2013 about the number of women with drug and alcohol and/or mental health problems accommodated in refuges in the borough in the previous twelve months. The key findings were: - Most boroughs (n=18) include some level of requirement to support women with drug and alcohol and/or mental health problems within service specifications for refuge provision. This sometimes a specific requirement or a more generic 'expectation' that all survivors would be supported and that problematic substance use or mental ill-health would not constitute an absolute exclusion criteria. - Only two boroughs actively exclude women with drug and alcohol and/or mental health problems from the refuges they fund. - Most refuges fulfil the requirements in their service specification by operating a 'case by case' basis for assessing the needs and risks of potential service users. - Many refuges do, however, operate a partial blanket policy relating to certain types of substance use and/or mental health problems, most commonly women using opiates (including methadone) and those who have been diagnosed with schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorder or dementia. - Only seventeen (53.1%) of 32 local authorities were able to provide full or partial information on the number of domestic violence survivors accommodated by their refuge providers in the past year who had identified problems with drugs and/or alcohol and mental health needs. - In 2012 and 2013 these 17 boroughs accommodated, at most, 239 women with identified problems in relation to alcohol or drug use or mental health. - Only 14 boroughs could provide information about the number of women with drug and alcohol and/or mental health problems were refused access to refuge accommodation in their borough. Details: London: AVA (Against Violence & Abuse) and Solace Women's Aid, 2014. 59p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed August 22, 2014 at: http://www.avaproject.org.uk/media/148039/case%20by%20case%20-%20london%20refuge%20provision%20-%20final.pdf Year: 2014 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.avaproject.org.uk/media/148039/case%20by%20case%20-%20london%20refuge%20provision%20-%20final.pdf Shelf Number: 132029 Keywords: Alcohol AbuseDomestic Violence (U.K.)Drug AbuseMental Health ServicesVictim ServicesViolence Against Women |
Author: Kelly, Liz Title: Finding the Costs of Freedom: How women and children rebuild their lives after domestic violence Summary: Whilst crisis interventions for women and children experiencing domestic violence are well developed, little is known about the process of rebuilding lives, including what longer term support needs might be. Women's organisations have lacked the resources to follow up service users. The Research Grants Programme run by the Big Lottery provided an exciting opportunity to do just that. Working in partnership with the Child and Woman Abuse Studies Unit (CWASU) at London Metropolitan University, Solace Women's Aid successfully applied for funds that enabled us to track 100 women and their children over a three year period (2011-2014). Women were recruited into the study after exiting a range of domestic violence services provided by Solace and, through four waves of interviews, we followed their onward journeys. The overarching aims of the project were to identify: - What factors support long term settlement, how do they interrelate and at what points in the process are they particularly important? - When do obstacles to resettlement occur and how can they be overcome? - How can community resources best be developed and integrated for long term support of survivor resettlement and independence? Through a multi-layered research methodology we explored how women and children are able to grow their 'space for action' (Kelly, 2003) after physically removing themselves from the 'coercive control' (Stark, 2007) exerted by the perpetrator over their everyday lives. We also measured post-separation abuse in Wave Three, experience of services and the legal system, changes in housing situation and how their informal networks facilitated or interfered with efforts to create safety and freedom. Details: London: Solace Women's Aid, 2014. 244p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed September 12, 2014 at: http://solacewomensaid.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/SWA-Finding-Costs-of-Freedom-Report.pdf Year: 2014 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://solacewomensaid.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/SWA-Finding-Costs-of-Freedom-Report.pdf Shelf Number: 133296 Keywords: Domestic Violence (U.K.)Family ViolenceIntimate Partner ViolenceVictim ServicesViolence Against Women |
Author: Matczak, Anna Title: Review of Domestic Violence policies in England and Wales. Summary: Violence against women was recognised as a fundamental infringement of human rights in the 1993 United Nations Declaration on the Elimination of Violence against Women and was a major topic at the 1995 Beijing Fourth World Conference on Women (UN Women, 1995). The serious consequences of domestic violence have also been recognised by the World Health Organisation (Krug et al. 2002). Over the past 30 years there have been major changes in the national policy and comprehension of domestic violence in the United Kingdom driven and in response to advocacy and campaigning by the women's movement and non-governmental organisations providing services to abused women (Harvin, 2006). In the shadow of policy developments, since the late 1980s, the criminal justice system, in particular the police service has been involved in configuring justice responses to the problem of domestic violence (ibid.). Responses followed in the health and social care services policy arena. Many government and non-government institutions started commissioning research on domestic violence and formulating policy recommendations. At the end of the 1990s two events had a particular influence on the development domestic violence policy in the United Kingdom; first, the increasing interest in aligning UK policies with the strategic objectives agreed in the Beijing Platform for Action (UN Women, 1995) to promote the human rights of women, and secondly New Labour taking power in England (1997) with a manifesto commitment to take forward policy development to combat domestic violence. During the period between 1997 and 2010, the main focus of policy and legislation on domestic violence was on implementing measures based on prevention, protection and justice and the provision of support for victims of domestic abuse, to be implemented by partnerships of service providers at local and national levels. Interestingly, in formulating policy, the government defined domestic violence in a gender-neutral way. Since 2010, following the election of a Coalition government (Conservatives and Liberal Democrats), there is a shift in policy direction with increased focus on a more broad gender-based agenda to "end violence against women and girls" (Home Office, 2010). Each of the four countries of the United Kingdom develops their own domestic violence strategy. Scottish policy is outlined in the Scottish Government and the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities (2009), 'Safer Lives: Changed Lives a Shared Approach to Tackling Violence against Women in Scotland' and focuses on Prevention; Protection of victims; Provision of services and Participation of all agencies to ensure policy making and practice development around violence against women is informed by those who use domestic violence services. Recent initiatives in relation to domestic violence in Scotland are framed within meeting gender equality priorities. In Northern Ireland, the current strategy is set out in "Tackling Violence at Home - A Strategy for Addressing Domestic Violence and Abuse in Northern Ireland" (DHSSPNI, 2005) and is supported by Action Plans up to 2012. In 2008 the Northern Ireland government published "Tackling Sexual Violence and Abuse - A Regional Strategy" (2008). These two strategies run in tandem and it planned that in March 2012 a joint Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse Action Plan will be published taking forward actions on a collaborative basis. In 2005 the Welsh Assembly Government published its first national strategy Tackling Domestic Abuse: The All Wales National Strategy supported also by yearly action plans. This was superseded in 2010 with the publication of "The Right to be Safe" which is six year integrated strategy for tackling all forms of violence against women and has an increased focus ensuring that "the whole violence against women agenda is tackled effectively" (Welsh Assembly Government, 2010, p.3). This report details and focuses on England and aims to present the findings from the literature review of policy development and implementation in the last two decades in England. The development of national measures (legislation and policy) to combat domestic abuse is addressed chronologically. Responsibility for providing services to domestic violence victims is divided between a range of government bodies and other agencies featured in the report. Some of the obstacles in achieving an integrated domestic violence policy in England are highlighted. Details: London: Kingston University and St George's, University of London, 2011. 28p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed October 2, 2014 at: http://eprints.kingston.ac.uk/18868/1/Matczak-A-18868.pdf Year: 2011 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://eprints.kingston.ac.uk/18868/1/Matczak-A-18868.pdf Shelf Number: 133551 Keywords: Domestic Violence (U.K.)Family ViolenceIntimate Partner ViolenceSexual ViolenceVictim ServicesViolence Against Women |
Author: Williamson, Emma Title: Evaluation of the Phoenix Programme: On Behalf of NADA and the Novas Scarman Group Summary: The aim of the Phoenix Programme is to assist women to recognise abusive behavior and how it can impact on their, and their children's, lives. Based on the findings of this evaluation this aim appears to have been achieved. Women reported higher levels of confidence and self esteem at the end of the intervention compared to pre intervention measurements. The women reported feeling happier and more content at the end of the programme than at the beginning. The largest change in the measurement of well-being was that feelings of anger increased for the participating women. Whilst anger is an important emotion which may well reflect women's move from blaming themselves to attributing blame for abuse on the shoulders of perpetrators it may also be linked to the lack of change in feeling safe. It would be helpful for facilitators to focus on these two issues at the final session to ensure that safety is maintained post intervention. The number of women who reported having an invisible disability was relatively high and supports the use of pre-engagement interviews which is a requirement of engaging with the phoenix programme. The only negative comment from participants related to the volume of information contained within the individual sessions. Women sometimes felt overwhelmed by the amount of information which may justify the inclusion of an additional session which allows women to reflect on what they have learnt throughout the programme. The majority of women on the programme had a combined household income of less than $10,000 per year. It would be useful therefore for the programme facilitators to consider how low income status might impact on women's choices. Finally, this evaluation has shown that the Phoenix Programme has a positive impact on the lives of the women who engage with the programme and as such provides a service to assist women move on from abusive relationships and to be aware of potential abuse within future relationships. The programme also includes specific elements relating to the relationship between abused women and their children. Those women who commented on this aspect of the programme stated that they found the programme helpful in identifying how patterns of abuse had affected both them and their children. These women found the programme helpful in identifying more positive ways to interact with their children following experiences of abuse. This is a positive outcome. Details: Bristol, UK: University of Bristol, 2011. 32p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed October 9, 2014 at: http://www.bristol.ac.uk/sps/research/projects/completed/2011/rj5332/phoenixfinalreport.pdf Year: 2011 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.bristol.ac.uk/sps/research/projects/completed/2011/rj5332/phoenixfinalreport.pdf Shelf Number: 134221 Keywords: Domestic Violence (U.K.)Family ViolenceIntimate Partner ViolenceVictims of Domestic ViolenceViolence Against Women |
Author: Kelly, Liz Title: Domestic Violence Perpetrator Programmes: Steps Towards Change Summary: As we complete this study there is more conversation about what is to be done with perpetrators of domestic violence than for some time - a conversation which ricochets across police, social services, women's support services, multi-agency groups, policymakers, commissioners, media commentators and academics. At issue are two key questions: Do domestic violence perpetrator programmes (DVPPs) actually work in reducing men's violence and abuse and increasing the freedom of women and children? How do we hold more perpetrators to account, since even if DVPPs do work, their limited capacity means the majority of men do not access them and criminal justice interventions alone are clearly not creating the change that all stakeholders seek? This report can offer evidence with respect to the first question and will engage with the second. Details: London and Durham: London Metropolitan University and Durham University, 2015. 52p. Source: Accessed February 3, 2015 at: https://www.dur.ac.uk/resources/criva/ProjectMirabalfinalreport.pdf Year: 2015 Country: United Kingdom URL: https://www.dur.ac.uk/resources/criva/ProjectMirabalfinalreport.pdf Shelf Number: 134525 Keywords: Domestic Violence (U.K.)Family ViolenceIntimate Partner ViolenceMale AbusersSpouse Abuse |
Author: Crowley, Annie Title: Football and Domestic Abuse: A Literature Review Summary: Introduction Tackling domestic abuse is a key priority for the Scottish Government and its partners. There is evidence of a correlation between the occurrence of certain football matches in Scotland and increased reports of domestic abuse. There is, however, limited evidence that explains this link. This literature review was commissioned by the Scottish Government to examine existing evidence about the relationship between domestic abuse and football. Football and domestic abuse -- - There are very few studies in the Scottish and wider UK context that specifically address the relationship of football to domestic abuse. - The studies that do exist mainly compare prevalence of domestic abuse (as recorded either by police, other emergency services, or hospital accident and emergency departments) on the days that football games take place with various comparators. All of these studies show what appears to be a link between domestic abuse and football. - Existing studies within the Scottish context are all quantitative analyses, based upon incidents reported to the police. These studies found that relative to various comparators, there was an increase in recorded domestic abuse incidents on the day that Old Firm fixtures were played. This was reported as being between 13% and 138.8%, depending on a number of variables: the day of the week the match took place; the comparator day / event; and the salience / outcome of a match. - The studies that used other football matches as a comparator found examples of apparent relationships between recorded domestic abuse incidents and the existence of the football match. However, these were generally less pronounced patterns, and smaller increases. - Caution should be exercised in interpreting the findings of quantitative studies that document a correlation between domestic abuse and football. Specifically, correlation should not be interpreted as causation. Findings may be impacted upon by the times of day measured, and whether matches took place at weekends where both alcohol consumption and reports of domestic abuse made to the police are known to increase substantially. - Caution should also be exercised regarding the use and interpretation of police recorded crime and complaints figures, and crime surveys, as these do not always provide a reliable measure due to the methodological issues associated with collection and recording. - Despite the limitations of these studies, they do demonstrate a relationship between the days of certain football matches (particularly Old Firm fixtures), and the number of recorded domestic abuse incidents. However, the nature and characteristics of these domestic violence offences are not known, nor who reported them, the gender of the perpetrator and victim, or whether they were repeat offences. - There is no qualitative research exploring the perspectives of the victims, perpetrators or practitioners in Scotland. This is a significant omission in existing research evidence. Details: Glasgow: Scottish Centre for Crime and Justice Research, 2014. 38p. Source: Internet Resource: REPORT No.6 /2014: Accessed February 7, 2015 at: http://www.sccjr.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Football-and-Domestic-Abuse_Literature-Review_25-NOV-2014.pdf Year: 2014 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.sccjr.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Football-and-Domestic-Abuse_Literature-Review_25-NOV-2014.pdf Shelf Number: 134558 Keywords: Alcohol Related ViolenceDomestic Violence (U.K.)FootballMasculinitySoccerSports and ViolenceSpouse Abuse |
Author: Howarth, Emma Title: Safety in Numbers: A Multi-site Evaluation of Independent Domestic Violence Advisor Services Summary: This report presents the findings from a significant programme of research that was undertaken to examine the provision and impact of IDVA (Independent Domestic Violence Advisor) services for female victims of domestic abuse deemed to be at high risk of harm or homicide. Commissioned by the Hestia Fund and funded by the Sigrid Rausing Trust and The Henry Smith Charity, this study, conducted between 1 January 2007 and 31 March 2009 and involving seven services operating in England and Wales, represents the first, large scale, multi-site evaluation of IDVA services ever undertaken in the United Kingdom. Importantly, this national-level research helps us to understand both the process of delivering IDVA services and the outcomes that may be achieved for victims. Specifically, this evaluation set out to examine: 1. The profile of victims accessing IDVA services, particularly with respect to the extent and nature of the abuse they were experiencing along with their socio-demographic characteristics; 2. The specific types of interventions and resources mobilised on behalf of victims by IDVAs, as well as the intensity with which this support was offered and the potential for IDVAs to tailor their approach to the particular needs of individual victims; 3. The effectiveness of these interventions in increasing victims' safety and well-being, and the factors that increased or decreased the likelihood of achieving these positive outcomes. In addition, the research examined the extent to which these outcomes were sustained over time. This evaluation represents the result of almost 5 years of work and could not have been possible without the input of far sighted funders, the commitment of the Independent Domestic Violence Advisors themselves to gather and submit data, and the critical eye of a distinguished Expert Panel. The result of this work is a set of recommendations that, if implemented, will change the lives and futures of thousands of victims and their children and save hundreds of millions of pounds to public services. At a time when the vulnerability of our society in general and our young people in particular, appears so clear, the need to follow these recommendations is all the more pressing. Details: London: Henry Smith Charity, 2009. 162p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed March 9, 2015 at: http://www.henrysmithcharity.org.uk/documents/SafetyinNumbersFullReportNov09.pdf Year: 2009 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.henrysmithcharity.org.uk/documents/SafetyinNumbersFullReportNov09.pdf Shelf Number: 134769 Keywords: Domestic Violence (U.K.)Family ViolenceIntimate Partner ViolenceVictim ServicesVictims of Domestic Violence |
Author: Guy, Jonathon Title: Early Intervention in Domestic Violence and Abuse - Full report Summary: Domestic Violence and Abuse is the first in a series of reports on different aspects of Early Intervention. We chose to focus on domestic violence and abuse in our first report because it is an important cause of long-term problems for children, families and communities. The damaging impacts of witnessing domestic violence and abuse on children can cast a long shadow with inter generational consequences sometimes leading to a repetition of abusive and violent behaviours. Moreover, domestic violence and abuse is not confined to a small section of the population but highly prevalent with 30% of women having experienced any domestic abuse since the age of 16 and 1.2% of people aged 16-59 having experienced partner abuse involving severe force in the last year. It also comes with immense costs - it is estimated that the overall costs to society of domestic violence and abuse stands at over L15.7bn. There must be more effective ways of preventing domestic violence and abuse and protecting children and families from its long-term effects. Details: London: Early Intervention Foundation, 2014. 103p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed April 20, 2015 at: http://www.eif.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/Early-Intervention-in-Domestic-Violence-and-Abuse-Full-Report.pdf Year: 2014 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.eif.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/Early-Intervention-in-Domestic-Violence-and-Abuse-Full-Report.pdf Shelf Number: 135278 Keywords: Abused WivesChildren and ViolenceDomestic Violence (U.K.)Family ViolenceViolence Against Women |
Author: Great Britain. Parliament. House of Lords and House of Commons Title: Violence against women and girls. Sixth Report of Session 2014-15 Summary: We undertook this inquiry to examine the United Kingdom's progress towards ratification of the Istanbul Convention. In doing so, we have heard how domestic violence transcends races, religions, communities and cultures. The scale, pervasive nature, and seemingly cross-cultural ignorance, of violence against women and girls is deeply troubling to us. Overall we think the UK is in a good position to be able to ratify the Istanbul Convention. The Home Secretary has shown personal commitment to this. Only one legislative change regarding jurisdiction is necessary in order to ratify, although several changes in practice are required to fulfil the Convention's positive obligations. Our key concern is that the Inter-Ministerial Group has insufficient powers. In addition, we have more focused concerns as set out below. We heard a great deal of evidence regarding the importance of education as part of preventing violence against women and girls. We recommend that the Government urgently prioritises prevention programmes. Prevention programmes need to be targeted and specific to communities and victims, based on evidence. We also recommend that all schools could, and should, play a greater role in tackling cultural attitudes through a requirement to teach issues surrounding gender equality and violence. This would also help prevent the use of unacceptable cultural justifications for such crimes across British culture. We heard evidence about the importance of specialist local services to victims of violence against women and girls. In January 2014, we heard assurances from the Prime Minister that the Government is happy to look at points raised by women's organisations regarding locally delivered women's services. However, witnesses told us a different story. We are concerned that devolving decisions about provision to local authorities has left women with specific needs unable to access vital help. We found that it was often those most in need and in the most vulnerable positions that were least well served. We recommend that the Government adopt a national co-ordinating role for the provision of specialist support services. The Government has introduced an amendment to the Serious Crime Bill which would create a specific criminal offence for psychological or coercive control. We are not convinced that the creation of an offence alone will result in a change of culture and we recommend that the Government consider a campaign to raise awareness of the issue and a review of training for professionals within the Criminal Justice System if Parliament creates this new specific offence. We also have concerns regarding how victims of such an offence would provide the evidence required to qualify for civil legal aid and are further concerned that the Government's Universal Credit roll-out has not sufficiently addressed the concerns of women's organisations regarding the vulnerability of victims of domestic violence: financial control is a component of coercive control. We are also troubled to hear of the prevalence of unacceptable justifications for crimes, including crimes committed in the name of so-called 'honour'. We believe this occurs in many cultures in Britain, and the Government has not done enough to tackle this. Education is a key preventative tool that the Government is not using effectively. We recommend that a standalone inquiry into these crimes is necessary. HMIC's finding that police forces responding to calls concerning domestic violence collected inadequate evidence was worrying. We also heard about the devastating or fatal impact resulting from inadequate response or risk assessment. It is the responsibility of the police to ensure they do all in their power to protect and assist those at risk. We heard particular concerns regarding victims with insecure immigration status, asylum seekers or refugees. These women and girls are often overlooked. Immigration policy isdeveloped separately from policy about violence against women and girls. We urge the Government to address the gap in service provision for women with insecure immigration status and to review the use of the detained fast track process for victims of violence against women and girls. Finally we call on the Government to prioritise ratification of the Istanbul Convention by putting the final legislative changes required (regarding jurisdiction) before this Parliament. Details: London: The Stationery Office Limited, 2015. 102p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed May 9, 2015 at: http://www.equalityhumanrights.com/sites/default/files/uploads/Pdfs/VAWG.pdf Year: 2015 Country: United Kingdom URL: http://www.equalityhumanrights.com/sites/default/files/uploads/Pdfs/VAWG.pdf Shelf Number: 135539 Keywords: Domestic ViolenceDomestic Violence (U.K.)Family ViolenceHonor CrimesVictim ServicesViolence Against WomenViolence Against Women (U.K.)Violence Against Women and Girls |