Improving access to domestic violence services for women of immigrant and refugee status: a trauma-informed perspective

ABSTRACT

This study is based in a mid-size city in New York State, where the immigrant and refugee population is steadily growing as a result of the U.S. federal resettlement program and secondary migration. These transformations pose challenges to service providers. Women of immigrant and refugee status who experience domestic violence constitute a particularly vulnerable, yet underserved population. This study is based on 25 in-depth interviews with program users and service providers within organizations that serve domestic violence survivors. It examines service needs and paths to help-seeking among these women through an intersectional and trauma-informed lens. Recommendations to improve service delivery and policies for this population are discussed.

KEYWORDS:

• Domestic violence
• immigrants and refugees
• violence against women
• trauma-informed perspective
• intersectionality

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the University at Buffalo Civic Engagement and Public Policy Grant.