Research
Welcome to our research page, where you can find all of our ongoing and completed research projects. Stay up-to-date with our latest findings and discoveries in various fields. Explore our page to learn more about our research initiatives and their impact on society.
Understanding the Needs of Victims and Survivors of Sexual Violence, Assault and Abuse that have been Marginalised.
We are currently undertaking a comprehensive research project focusing on the unique needs of victims and survivors of sexual violence and abuse who have been marginalised within the West Midlands. This important study is funded by the Office of the West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioners and NHS England (NHSE). Our primary goal is to deeply understand and amplify the voices of communities that have been marginalised, as well as those of the professionals dedicated to supporting our communities in order for us to improve the cultural competency, and cultural literacy of the service offerings within the West Midlands.
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West Midlands Sexual Assault and Abuse Needs Assessment for Black and Minoritised Communities
Research Funded by NHSE and The Office of the West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner
Research Objectives
Identify and Understand Needs: Explore and document the specific needs, challenges, and barriers faced by groups that have been marginalised in accessing support services.
Amplify Marginalised Voices: Provide a platform for marginalised individuals to share their experiences and insights, ensuring their voices are heard in the policy-making process.
Service Evaluation: Assess how current services are meeting these needs and where gaps in service provision exist.
Inform Policy and Practice: Utilise findings to inform and improve policy and service delivery, ensuring that interventions are effective, inclusive, and culturally competent.
To Participate
We'd love to hear from you
In phase one of our research we are seeking victims and survivors of sexual violence and abuse who are based in the West Midlands and who identify with or belong to communities that have been marginalised, to participate in this research.
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Participation may involve:
Surveys and Questionnaires: Providing insights via structured forms to quantify needs and issues.
Interviews: Engaging in one-on-one or group interviews to offer a deeper, qualitative understanding of individual experiences.
Focus Groups: Participating in discussions with other community members to identify common challenges and brainstorm potential solutions.
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Who Can Participate?
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Anyone aged 18 and above who identifies as belonging to a group that has been marginalised and/or racialised that would like to influence policy, practice and support for victims and survivors who have been subjected to sexual violence and abuse. This may include but is not limited to:
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Individuals from minoritised ethnic backgrounds
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Members of the LGBTQ+ community
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People with disabilities
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Economic minorities and those facing significant socioeconomic challenges
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Other groups who feel their voices are not adequately represented or heard
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In phase two of our research, we are seeking practitioners and professionals who work within support services. We highly value the insights from those who directly engage with and provide services to communities that have been marginalised.
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Participation may involve:
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Surveys and Questionnaires: Providing insights via structured forms to quantify needs and issues.
Interviews: Engaging in one-on-one or group interviews to offer a deeper, qualitative understanding of individual experiences.
Focus Groups: Participating in discussions with other community members to identify common challenges and brainstorm potential solutions.
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Who Can Participate?
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We invite any professionals who work with or for victims of sexual violence and abuse to participate in this research. Your professional experience and insights are crucial in shaping our understanding of the needs of marginalised communities and improving the support systems available to them. Participants can include, but are not limited to:
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Healthcare Providers: Doctors, nurses, psychiatrists, psychologists, and other medical staff who come into contact with survivors.
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Counsellors and Psychotherapists: Professionals providing emotional and practical support to survivors.
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Criminal Justice Professionals: Professionals who are often first responders to incidents of sexual violence and abuse.
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Legal Professionals: Lawyers, paralegals, and legal advisors who assist victims and survivors through the judicial process.
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Advocates and Nonprofit Practitioners: Those working in or with nonprofit organisations focused on victim support and advocacy.
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Educators and Researchers: Individuals who study sexual violence and abuse or provide training on handling such cases.
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Community Leaders: Leaders within specific communities who play a role in supporting survivors and advocating for their rights.
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Confidentiality and Support
All participant information will be handled with the utmost confidentiality and support will be available to participants who may find discussing their experiences distressful, we will always prioritise emotional and physical safety of anyone engaging with our research.
How to Get Involved:
If you are interested in participating or wish to learn more about the research, fill out the contact from below and someone will be in touch. Your involvement could be pivotal in driving change and improving support systems for all marginalised members of the West Midlands community.
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Phase One
Phase Two
Let us know if you'd like to be apart of our research.
