Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://anrows.intersearch.com.au/anrowsjspui/handle/1/22266
Record ID: d072e9f5-530d-4c11-8e95-8ba397e9f134
DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192114148
Type: Journal Article
Title: Public health directives in a pandemic: Paradoxical messages for domestic abuse victims in four countries
Authors: Stanley, Nicky
Gregory, Soma
Holt, Stephanie
Barter, Christine
Christofides, Nicola
Maremela, Ogopoleng
Motjuwadi, Nobulembu Mwanda
Humphreys, Cathy
Elliffe, Ruth
Topic: Health, primary care and specialist service responses
Natural disasters and pandemics
Categories: ANROWS e-newsletter February 2023
Year: 2022
Publisher: MDPI
Citation: Volume 19, Issue 21
Abstract:  When the COVID-19 pandemic manifested urgent concerns were raised around the globe about the increased risk that public health restrictions could pose for victims of domestic abuse. Governments, NGOs and community services swiftly responded to convey the message that services for victims were operational and restrictions did not apply to those fleeing harm. This paper reports on the various approaches used to communicate this public health messaging during COVID-19, further highlighting strengths and learning which could inform future crises messaging. It utilises data gathered through a rapid review and mapping of policy and practice initiatives across 4 high-middle income countries: UK, Australia, South Africa and Ireland. Four themes were identified: (1) Top-down: National media messaging; (2) Top-down: Political leadership; (3) Traditional media vs. social media and (4) Bottom-up messaging: Localised, community-based messaging. It was found that a strong, clear top-down stance on domestic abuse was perceived as beneficial during COVID-19. However, a stronger focus on evaluation, reach and impact, particularly for minority groups may be required. Newer forms of media were shown to have potential in conveying messaging to minority groups. Community and grassroots organizations demonstrated their experiential knowledge in reaching target audiences. Harnessing this expertise for future crises messaging may be valuable.
Notes: 

Open access

URI: https://anrows.intersearch.com.au/anrowsjspui/handle/1/22266
Appears in Collections:Journal Articles

Files in This Item:
There are no files associated with this item.


Items in ANROWS library are protected by copyright, with all rights reserved, unless otherwise indicated.

Google Media

Google ScholarTM

Who's citing