Social Workers’ Understanding of the Complexities Involved with the Intersections of Women, Disability and Partner Violence

Abstract

The aim of this investigation was to gain insight into social workers’ perspectives and practice contexts in relation to disabled women who had experienced partner violence. Social workers were interviewed about their work with disabled women who had experienced partner violence. Findings showed inconsistencies in the services that were offered to disabled women, depending on the setting and social workers’ knowledge or willingness to circumvent government social policies. Social workers’ practice contexts were complex and reflected the unique needs of disabled women who had experienced partner violence, social workers’ attitudes, work settings and resources.

Keywords: disabled women, Canadian social work policy, intersections, partner violence.