NCJ Number
83679
Date Published
1982
Length
8 pages
Annotation
Procedures for the development of a spouse abuse program in a rural area are described, based upon the experience of developing such a program in rural Michigan.
Abstract
The foundation of any comprehensive approach to addressing spouse abuse in a rural community is a grassroots community organization. Four or five people willing to work and be publicly identified with the issue are sufficient. Another larger group of people who will deliver specific assistance on an irregular basis is also necessary. The next step is to train the core group by the imparting of knowledge about the various aspects of spouse abuse and organizing to address it. The core group should become incorporated to permit it to obtain the proper recognition, benefits, and funding. A strategy should be developed which outlines goals, objectives, and plans for achieving them. The primary goal will presumably be to provide services and assistance to victims of spouse abuse. It is imperative for the program to develop some sort of emergency shelter capability. The recommended form of shelter is an established house with the sole purposes of providing shelter, related services, and advocacy for victims and their children. Publicity for the program might begin with a public forum that has media coverage and an 'outside' expert as a featured speaker. The program's strategy and content should be announced at this forum. The next step in a comprehensive approach is to form a State coalition of all independent, small community groups geared to deal with spouse abuse. The coalition can begin work on legislative change. Four notes are listed.