ANROWS library Collection:

A rapid evidence review of interventions to identify, prevent, and address intimate partner violence experienced by refugee women in post-settlement settings

2024-12-01T00:00:00Z

Title: A rapid evidence review of interventions to identify, prevent, and address intimate partner violence experienced by refugee women in post-settlement settings Authors: Clarke, Samantha; Toole-Anstey, Chye; Cameron, Jacqui; Spence, Nigel; Spangaro, Jo Abstract: Intimate partner violence (IPV) occurs across cultures with adverse health and social outcomes for women. Refugee women experience additional challenges that hinder help-seeking in post-settlement contexts. The aim of this review was to identify interventions that identify and respond to post-settlement IPV experiences of refugee women. An electronic search was undertaken, between May and June 2022, of the following databases: Scopus, PsycINFO, Proquest, Web of Science, PubMed, and PTSDpubs for publications. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. This rapid evidence review using narrative synthesis identified seven studies from six databases. Four narratives for interventions for refugee women in post-settlement settings were identified: (1) working across cultural barriers; (2) gender inequality as a barrier to accessing IPV interventions; (3) understanding rights, responsibilities, systems, and supports are central; and (4) coordinated responses are essential to interventions. Cultural barriers and gender inequality were identified as hindering the implementation of IPV interventions. Interventions aimed to ensure refugees understood post-settlement rights, responsibilities, systems, and supports are warranted. Furthermore, when language barriers were overcome, coordinated service responses produced favourable outcomes for refugee women experiencing IPV. The results identified possible means of addressing challenges to IPV interventions with refugee communities including overcoming language barriers, enacting cultural responsiveness, addressing pre-and post-migration stressors, and providing education to support women to understand rights, responsibilities, and post-settlement systems. Future research, practice, and policy should consider coordinated service responses for IPV interventions with refugee women in post-settlement settings.

Improving service pathways: The COVID-19 pandemic and the experiences of women and gender diverse people in the Victorian sex industry

2024-08-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Improving service pathways: The COVID-19 pandemic and the experiences of women and gender diverse people in the Victorian sex industry Authors: Hirsch, Rachel V. Abstract: This report investigates the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on women and gender diverse people in the Victorian sex industry, with a focus on their service needs, help-seeking experiences, and patterns of violence and abuse. Through a mixed-methods approach, including a safety survey and interviews, the study reveals heightened financial insecurity, housing instability, and discrimination during the pandemic, compounded by barriers to accessing support services. The findings illustrate the intersection of sex industry work and intimate partner violence, highlighting co-occurring violence and the exacerbation of risks during the pandemic. The report underscores the need for targeted interventions, improved service pathways, and policy reforms that recognise the unique vulnerabilities of this population, advocating for a trauma-informed, rights-based approach to supporting individuals in the sex industry.

Research to policy guidance: Exploring the policy implications from Engaging in Change: A Victorian study of perpetrator program attrition and participant engagement in men’s behaviour change programs

2024-08-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Research to policy guidance: Exploring the policy implications from Engaging in Change: A Victorian study of perpetrator program attrition and participant engagement in men’s behaviour change programs Authors: Fitz-Gibbon, Kate; McGowan, Jess Abstract: This research to policy guidance document explores the policy implications of the Victorian study Engaging in Change, which examines factors influencing program attrition and engagement in men’s behaviour change programs (MBCPs). Key findings address the need for enhanced data collection systems, sustainable funding models, expanded housing options for people who use violence, and the establishment of post-program support services. The report highlights the importance of individualised support, readiness work, and cohesive program design to improve outcomes for perpetrators and affected families. Policy recommendations include developing a systematic approach to data collection, revising funding models to ensure sustainability, and expanding housing and support services to facilitate effective intervention and risk management.

Research to practice guidance: Sharing the practice learnings from Engaging in change: A Victorian study of perpetrator program attrition and participant engagement in men’s behaviour change programs

2024-08-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Research to practice guidance: Sharing the practice learnings from Engaging in change: A Victorian study of perpetrator program attrition and participant engagement in men’s behaviour change programs Authors: Fitz-Gibbon, Kate; McGowan, Jess Abstract: This report provides research-to-practice guidance based on findings from the Victorian study Engaging in Change, which examines perpetrator program attrition and engagement in men’s behaviour change programs (MBCPs). It explores factors such as readiness to change, the effectiveness of court-mandated programs, the importance of pre-program and post-program support, and the establishment of a practitioner community of practice. Key recommendations include revisiting funding models for MBCPs, enhancing data collection practices, and expanding post-program support services to maintain visibility of risk and ensure sustainable behaviour change.