Transforming Communities Institute

Domestic Violence Services Assessment: Uintah County

Executive Summary

The two-phase research initiative conducted by Utah State University's Transforming Communities Institute and MSW program in collaboration with Uintah Basin Domestic Violence Coalition offers a comprehensive examination of the domestic violence service provider network from both provider and survivor perspectives. This executive summary synthesizes the project's methodology, key findings, and provides recommendations for enhancing domestic violence services in Uintah County.

Methodology

The research project was designed and executed in two distinct phases. Phase 1 employed an online human services assessment survey distributed to local service providers (n=28) to ascertain the availability of domestic violence resources, identify service gaps, and understand organizational and communication dynamics within the service provider network. Phase 2 utilized qualitative interviews with domestic violence survivors (n=14) to gather insights into their experiences within the service network, focusing on resource availability, service gaps, and barriers to accessing support.

Key Findings

Phase 1 revealed a robust awareness among service providers of emergency shelter, advocacy and support, legal services, and therapy as readily available services. However, it identified significant gaps in childcare services, transitional housing, and other specialized supports. The analysis highlighted the challenges of inadequate funding, staffing, space, and inter-organizational communication affecting the network's effectiveness.

Phase 2 highlighted survivors' experiences, emphasizing the improved availability of services over time yet pointing out significant barriers to accessing these services. Survivors cited issues such as lack of awareness about available resources, negative interactions with law enforcement, and the need for more supportive, informed, and coordinated service provision.

Strengths

·Comprehensive Service Availability: The study underscores Uintah County's commitment to addressing domestic violence, evidenced by the broad range of services available to survivors.

·Organizational Capacities and Collaboration: Internal strengths such as technology, training, and organizational structure indicate a solid foundation to support programming for survivors. Collaborative efforts like multidisciplinary team meetings and joint training sessions highlight the community's dedication to shared values to address domestic violence.

Areas for Growth

·Service Provision Gaps: Despite the availability of essential services, the lack of childcare and transitional housing remains a significant concern, underscoring the need for a more comprehensive support system for survivors. Minimal supports are available to address a diverse population, including inclusive services for Indigenous and Latinx communities.

·Organizational and Communication Challenges: The findings point to the need for enhanced funding, staffing, and improved communication and collaboration among service providers to better address survivors' needs effectively.

Key Recommendations

 1.    Enhance Education and Awareness: Initiatives to increase community awareness about domestic violence resources and support mechanisms are crucial. This includes broad community education efforts to foster a deeper understanding and access to services.
 2.    Improve Service Access and Collaboration: Addressing key service gaps in childcare, housing, and financial assistance, and fostering greater collaboration among service providers will enhance the network's capacity to meet community needs. More attention is needed to addressing diverse populations in the community as well. 
3.    Build Trust and Knowledge Among Service Providers: Specialized training for service providers, particularly law enforcement and judicial staff, can improve interactions with survivors, building trust, and facilitating access to necessary services. 
4.    Continuous Evaluation and Adaptation: Ongoing research and evaluation to assess the effectiveness of services and adapt strategies based on evolving community needs are essential for sustained support to domestic violence survivors.


In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into the strengths and challenges of the domestic violence service provider network in Uintah County. By addressing the identified gaps and leveraging the community's collective strengths, service providers can significantly enhance the support system for survivors of domestic violence, ensuring more accessible, effective, and comprehensive care