Across landscapes and lifespan: causes and solutions of gender-based violence from survivors of sexual violence against women and girls (VAWG)

Abstract

ABSTRACT Violence Against Women and Girls has become a focus of sexual violence prevention policy, but how do survivors relate to this framing? This study listened to 13 survivors across 3 focus groups in one UK region. Questions focused on sexual violence terminology, settings and perceptions of safety. Challenges around reporting and policy revisions were discussed. Thematic analysis highlighted a discrepancy between how survivors experience sexual violence and how policy frames it, notably around structural gender inequality drivers and the scope and span of sexual harassment. Participant's solutions focused on prevention through education across institutions, targeting boys and men. Clear evidence of a justice gap was illustrated through lived experience of reporting, many felt their own vulnerability made them both a target and a less credible victim. Survivors outlined what they needed from reporting mechanisms recognising the span of gender-based violence across the landscapes and lifetimes of these survivors. PRACTICE IMPACT STATEMENT This qualitative study speaks to the accounts of a small group of sexual violence survivors who felt their experiences should be addressed through a wider structural gender inequality lens. They felt prevention through education should focus on males and span institutions. Their experiences of all-encompassing, lower-level harassment should be captured through supportive and compassionate reporting mechanisms but the police need to earn back trust.