NCJ Number
215123
Journal
Violence Against Women Volume: 12 Issue: 8 Dated: August 2006 Pages: 761-788
Date Published
August 2006
Length
28 pages
Annotation
This article reports the findings of recent process and outcome evaluations of the Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conferences (MARACs) in Cardiff, Wales, which provide a forum for agencies to share information and reduce harm to victims of domestic violence.
Abstract
Evaluation results revealed the significant contribution MARACs make to serving victims of domestic violence. Agencies were able to more efficiently assist victims due to the enhanced information sharing that resulted from agencies working together in the same room, at the same time, and on a regular basis. Most frequent actions taken by the MARACs were to refer victims to the Women’s Safety Unit or to the police. Police and victim data indicated that 6 in 10 victims assisted by the MARACs program had not been revictimized. The evaluation also revealed that progress had been made toward integrating risk assessment for victims and their children into the daily practices of participating agencies. The findings suggest the need for an extended follow-up beyond the usual 6-month follow-up to ensure revictimization rates do not increase with time. The process and outcome evaluation studies focused on: (1) how the agencies involved in the MARACs shared information, cooperated, and developed proactive victim strategies as a team; (2) the most frequent actions agreed upon at the MARACs; (3) risk level for MARAC victims; and (4) prevalence of revictimization among MARAC victims. Research methods included observations of MARAC meetings and interviews with key informants and victims. Data on revictimization were drawn from police files. Data were analyzed statistically as well as qualitatively. Future research should attempt to compare the impact of the MARACs to other models of multi-agency responses to domestic violence. Tables, notes, references