Utah Statewide Domestic Violence Needs Assessment

Abstract

In Utah, 39.6% of women and 19.6% of men report experiencing physical violence, rape, and/or stalking in their lifetimes.1 This violence can and does end in homicide with approximately one intimate partner-related homicide committed every month in Utah.2 According to a report submitted to the Family Violence Prevention and Services Program, 2,425 survivors accessed shelter services in Utah from October 1, 2015 to September 30, 2016, of which 1,661 identified as women, 189 as men, and 575 as children. The purpose of this research study was to assess the system-specific challenges and needs facing survivors of domestic violence and service providers in the state of Utah, with the goal of informing services and future funding priorities. The goal of Phase I was to conduct in-depth focus groups and interviews with survivors and service providers across the state of Utah and consisted of: (1) participant recruitment, (2) data collection, and (3) data analysis. Phase II is currently underway and consists of the dissemination of two questionnaires, one aimed at professionals (e.g., law enforcement, judges, prosecutors, social workers) and the other aimed at the larger Utah community. The survey instruments assess barriers to service provision in the areas of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking. This report presents findings from Phase I. The voices of survivors and domestic violence service providers are emphasized, as their firsthand experiences make them the experts. This report begins with a brief review of the methodology used for this needs assessment, followed by the findings and the recommendations for future action. [CVRL Note: Report includes quotations from domestic violence survivors about services. Appendices include research terms glossary, consent documents, and focus group and interview protocols.] (Author Text)