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 guide was designed to acquaint women considering a divorce with general information about divorce and the law. It provides women, regardless of the circumstances surrounding their divorce, with knowledge and resources to help ensure that their children, health, finances and safety are secure.

This tool is designed for judges to promote consideration of ways to maximize a child’s safety as they determine issues of custody and visitation.

This webpage defines the Community Reinvestment Act and describes the history of the regulations.

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 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 guidebook contains information on how adults can step forward and help protect children. It describes what to look for and how to talk with other adults and with children about preventing sexual abuse.

This handout provides some simple but critical tips about phone, computer, email, instant messaging and other technology use to discuss if someone you know is in danger. Available in English, Spanish, Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, Somali, and Russian.