NCJ Number
188933
Journal
Justice Research and Policy Volume: 2 Issue: 2 Dated: Fall 2000 Pages: 1-17
Date Published
2000
Length
17 pages
Annotation
A 2-year research project sought the opinions and recommendations of victims, victim service program directors, and front-line victim service personnel and volunteers regarding the availability, quality, and delivery of services to sexual assault victims in Georgia.
Abstract
Data collection took place between October 1998 and March 1999 by means of anonymous surveys. Results revealed that the majority of program directors and personnel of both rape crisis centers and victim/witness assistance programs reported that the overall variety of services offered by their programs met the needs of local victims. However, many believed that the volume of services should increase. Results also revealed that personnel of rape crisis centers spent their time answering crisis calls, accompanying victims to medical examinations, making referrals, and providing counseling. Personnel of victim/witness assistance programs spent much of their time notifying victims, explaining legal proceedings, and accompanying victims to court. Directors and personnel consistently described the need for more training and technical assistance. Results also revealed that victims overwhelmingly reported good treatment by victim service personnel. They regarded support, counseling, a listening ear, and information as the most helpful services. They most frequently responded that more counseling services and more information would be the most helpful program additions. Findings indicated the need for actions to improve services to sexual assault victims. Figures, tables, and 7 references