Intimate partner violence: A helpful guide to legal and psychosocial support services

Abstract

Violence against women is a significant problem that profoundly affects the physical and mental wellbeing of those affected. While medicolegal
interventions in South Africa have been firmly established to respond to sexual offences, no formal protocols on intimate partner
violence interventions at primary healthcare level are in place yet. In support of recent policy recommendations for the development of
a combined health and social sector system response to intimate partner violence, this article provides health professionals with insight
into domestic violence and current legal and psychosocial support services. It focuses on how to support and advise abused women about
practicalities of obtaining protection orders and accessing shelter services.