Evaluating new support for women exposed to intimate partner violence in collaboration with women’s shelters

Representatives from women’s shelters in Huddinge, Södertälje, Gävle, Sundbyberg, Solna, Västerås, Enköping and Uppsala took part in an introductory workshop held at IBF’s premises in Uppsala in late June. In addition to an overview of the research project, participants received a detailed introduction to the intervention model and tested several of the exercises that shelter counsellors will be delivering to women exposed to violence.

“Many women who have experienced violence in intimate relationships continue to be negatively affected long after they have left the relationship. There is a lack of systematic development and evaluation of effective interventions that help women move beyond the impact of violence,” says Freddie Lymeus, project leader and environmental psychology researcher at IBF.

The project is funded by Forte and will, in collaboration with 15 Swedish women’s shelters, evaluate the Strength to Move On intervention. The programme consists of practical exercises designed to support recovery and personal growth following a violent relationship. The exercises were initially developed and piloted in collaboration with Uppsala Women’s Shelter. As part of the study, professional shelter counsellors deliver the intervention in group settings, where participants meet every other week over a twelve-week period.

“The study aims to examine how the intervention can be integrated into the shelters’ regular activities and what impact it has on the women involved,” explains Freddie Lymeus.

Through interviews with both the counsellors and participating women, the researchers seek to better understand their experiences of the intervention and to inform its future development. The effects of the programme are also evaluated through repeated surveys measuring quality of life, mental health, self-compassion, and value-based living.

“In addition to supporting the women directly, the project will provide evidence to guide public agencies and stakeholders working with this target group. Close collaboration with the shelters ensures that the intervention is adapted to their working conditions, making it easier for them to implement it as part of their ongoing support services,” says Freddie Lymeus.