Making the links: towards an integrated strategy for the elimination of violence against women in intimate relationships with men: a study commissioned by Women's Aid

This main focus of the study is on women's experience of violence in intimate relationships with men i.e. husband, partner, ex husband or live-in partner, boyfriend. Domestic violence and violence in intimate relationships are used interchangeably. As such the study does not address issues relating to violence among siblings, violence between children and parents, violence in gay and lesbian relationships or violence by women against men. The main objectives of the study are: • To examine the extent of violence against women in intimate relationships; • To outline the extent to which services come in contact with the issue of violence against women in the home; • To document the professional and service response to women who have experienced violence; • In the light of the foregoing, to make recommendations regarding the development of services for women who have experienced violence in intimate relationships.