Provision of specialized services for children exposed to domestic violence: Barriers encountered in Violence Against Women (VAW) services

Abstract

Domestic violence is a significant global problem (Guedes, Bott, Garcia-Moreno, & Colombini, 2016). Violence Against Women (VAW) agencies, particularly shelters, are a critical resource for women and children fleeing from domestic violence. However, shelters have traditionally focused primarily on servicing adult victims, with limited funding and attention given to specialized services for children exposed to domestic violence. These children require services tailored to their unique needs and risks. Such services, particularly with respect to risk assessment and safety planning, are the focus of this study. Programs to support children have been documented in the literature for over 3 decades. The research sought to provide an up-to-date perspective on the barriers that exist to providing child-specific services within VAW agencies. To gain insight into existing practices for children’s services, interviews were analyzed with 27 service providers in the VAW sector in Ontario, Canada, most of whom worked in shelters. Through a thematic analysis of the data, we identified key barriers to child-specific service provision across VAW agencies in this province. The key challenges are linked to funding, training and a lack of child-focused resources.