Policy & Systems Advocacy Content Topic Results

This guide provides advocates with an overview of the increased risk of lethality when firearms are present in cases of domestic violence, a discussion of both federal and Illinois state laws related to firearm possession, and the role of the advocate in addressing firearms when working with survivors of domestic violence.

African American women have as high, and in some studies higher, rates of trauma as women from other racial groups in substance abuse treatment. This article recommends numerous trauma-informed practices to be used by programs specifically working with women who have experienced trauma. It also recommends a simple agency assessment to identify specific strengths and weaknesses in terms of being able to effectively address trauma.

This extensive report includes descriptions of trauma service models and evidence-based and promising practice models. All models are designed for persons receiving or at risk for receiving public mental health and/or substance abuse services who have been traumatized by interpersonal violence and abuse.

This 3-page document explores the elements that impact the identity of Latin@ Lesbians and provides additional information to facilitate discussion after watching the video "My Girlfriend Did It."

This document describes positive peer social interactions, describes the evidence base for strategies to promote them, and explains why this is important. Resources to use for implementation are provided.

This fact sheet explains what being transgender means, how transgender youth may experience TDV differently. The factsheet also discusses barriers transgender youth face in seeking help.

This 2 page handout addresses common issues for victims who are considering changing their identity (e.g. name, U.S. social security number, birth certificate, etc.) as part of an attempt to remain safe and hidden from an abuser or stalker. It dispels seven common myths by describing realities of what can happen after an identity change and by providing introductory tips on protecting your identity.

This pregnancy wheel for OB/GYN and reproductive health settings reminds providers to routinely ask their patients about birth control interference or coerced pregnancy and about their experiences with intimate partner violence. The card reminds providers how to offer patients support, raise alternative birth control options and provide referral for safety planning. The back of the wheel lists phone numbers for the National Domestic Violence Hotline, the National Dating Abuse Helpline, and the Sexual Assault Hotline for further support.

This Applied Research paper provides a review of the current literature on screening women for sexual violence in health care facilities, and discusses the reasoning and rationale behind screening women for sexual violence.

This fact sheet reveals the effect on decreasing children's poverty rates as parents, even those working full time, increase their own education level. Implications for policy are discussed.

This document discusses the challenges faced by both domestic violence service providers in serving youth and challenges faced by teens seeking help. The document suggests re-evaluating program policies and structures to enhance services to youth.

This comprehensive toolkit includes information, personal stories, and guides for specific situations for service providers. It works within an Anti-Oppression Perspective and uses a Harm Reduction Framework to promote safety for women who have experienced trauma, mental health problems, and substance abuse, issues which are highly pertinent to any domestic violence shelter.