Violence against women: public health or law enforcement problem or both?

Despite on-going research spanning many years, the police investigation of different forms of violence against women remains under review. The most recent reviews exploring sexual and domestic violence suggest that vulnerable victims are not identified effectively and that this subsequently impacts on the investigation, level of attrition and the provision of correct support for victims. The authors suggest that some of the current methods, aimed at improving these issues, can further compound problems within a police culture that often remains focused on narrow quantifiable performance targets. Violence against women involves a range of very complex issues and for most victims there are a number of vulnerabilities involved.

Considering these factors are often related to public health concerns the authors argue for a more consistent and joined up approach to supporting victims through the Criminal Justice System. In the short term this is necessary for keeping victims on board with the process and in the longer term this is essential when dealing effectively with the broader, longer term issues impacting on their victimisation. It is crucial given the current fiscal climate that these issues are dealt with universally, with a focus on longer term outcomes.