Factors Affecting Utilization of Healthcare and Legal Services by Domestic Violence Survivors in Kibra Sub-County, Nairobi City County, Kenya

Abstract

Domestic violence is a criminal offense and a violation of fundamental human rights as provided in the Kenya Penal Code, the Sexual offences Act 2006, and the Constitution 2010 among other legal frameworks at the international, regional, and national level. Given the profound health impact and the link between abuse severity and the well-being of the survivors over time, coupled with the need to enhance protection and legal support, healthcare and legal services are critical in domestic violence management. Using Public enforcement of law theory, this paper posits that government agents for instance healthcare providers, chiefs, police, and prosecutors can detect and sanction violators of law, thereby preventing and responding to domestic violence crimes. The theory further argues that survivors hold primary information and can only provide it if they perceive the justice system as helpful. Legal and healthcare service providers are essential in assisting domestic violence survivors because of their complementary roles. Using a mixed methods descriptive survey design, this paper highlights factors that affect utilization of healthcare and legal services by domestic violence survivors in Kibra Sub-County, Nairobi City County, Kenya