Social protection programmes supporting women survivors of domestic violence (GSDRC Helpdesk Research Report 1130)
Lessons learnt from social protection and cash transfer programmes which target women survivors of domestic violence
Abstract
Query
What are the lessons learnt from social protection/cash transfer programmes which target women survivors of domestic/family violence?
Key findings
Few cash transfer programmes appear to specifically target women survivors of domestic violence. As a result this paper takes a broad understanding of social protection. The most effective programmes appear to combine both prevention and response measures. Many of the programmes described below are ‘transformative social protection’, as they aim to change lives through achieving empowerment, equality, social inclusion and the realisation of human rights.
The evidence base for social protection programmes, especially cash transfers, which target women survivors of domestic violence is very weak. The literature is closely connected with literature on programmes addressing violence against women and girls. There is conflicting evidence about whether cash transfers increase or decrease domestic violence, although very few cash transfer programmes have been specifically designed to support survivors of domestic violence.
Interventions have not had the same effect on all women experiencing domestic violence. In addition, interventions may have different impacts over time, with short-term increases in domestic violence followed by long-term decreases, for example
Citation
Rohwerder, B. Social protection programmes supporting women survivors of domestic violence (GSDRC Helpdesk Research Report 1130). Governance and Social Development Resource Centre, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK (2014) 11 pp.
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