Introduction
Experience of Domestic Violence in Accessing Support Service
Domestic violence survivors face numerous challenges when seeking help, ranging from social isolation and self-blame to fear of repercussions and lack of trust in support services. A study on women survivors of domestic violence and abuse (DVA) highlights the complexities of their experiences in accessing support services.
Barriers to Disclosure
Survivors often struggle with disclosure due to various factors, including:
- Self-perception: Women may blame themselves for the abuse, feel ashamed, or believe they are responsible for their partner’s behavior.
- Past relationship experiences: Those who have experienced abusive relationships throughout their lives may find it difficult to disclose or seek help.
- Fear of repercussions: Survivors may fear further abuse, revenge violence, or repercussions for their partner or children.
Trajectories to Specialist Services
The journey to accessing specialist support services is often long and arduous. Survivors may encounter various pathways, including:
- Professional agencies: Contact with support services often follows a crisis, such as a police intervention or a visit to a hospital.
- Informal support: Friends and family members may provide emotional or instrumental support, but disclosure to them can be partial or met with unhelpful responses.
- Self-referral: Some survivors may directly contact support services, such as a national helpline or a local support agency.
Role of Health Professionals
Health professionals, particularly general practitioners (GPs), play a crucial role in identifying and supporting survivors of domestic violence. However, the study reveals that GPs rarely ask about abuse, and even when they do, they may not provide appropriate referrals or support.
Improving Access to Support Services
To better support survivors of domestic violence, it is essential to:
- Increase awareness: Publicity about support services and the importance of seeking help can encourage survivors to come forward.
- Improve training: Health professionals and other support service providers should receive training on identifying and responding to domestic violence.
- Ensure safe and confidential support: Survivors need access to safe, confidential, and non-judgmental support services that prioritize their well-being and safety.
By understanding the experiences of domestic violence survivors and addressing the barriers they face, we can work towards creating a more supportive and responsive environment for those seeking help.
