Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability
Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability

Domestic Violence Shelters Keep Victims Safe, Need Data on Long-Term Effects

Report 00-03, August 2000




Report Summary

  • The victims of domestic violence program has successfully kept victims of domestic violence safe when they are in shelter. For three consecutive years, the program has met its "zero incidents" performance standard.
  • The percentage of clients in shelter for 72 hours or more with a family safety plan in effect is below the current legislative standard.
  • The Department of Children and Families lacks data on the program's long-term impact on preventing further abuse of victims. The certified domestic violence centers should report more information on victims' previous experiences in attempting to break free from domestic violence.
  • The lack of cooperation between certified domestic violence centers and child protection staff can hinder staff from determining the best course of action for the family. The centers and the department have developed several strategies to improve their interaction, and the department should monitor the effectiveness of these efforts.


Related Reports
  1. Progress Report: Domestic Violence Program Improves Coordination, But Lacks Data on Long-Term Effect of Services
    Report 02-19 March 2002
Copies of this report in print or alternate accessible format may be obtained by email OPPAGA@oppaga.fl.gov, telephone (850) 488-0021, or mail 111 W. Madison St., Room 312 Tallahassee, FL 32399-1475.
Copies of this report in print or alternate accessible format may be obtained by email OPPAGA@oppaga.fl.gov, telephone (850) 488-0021, or mail 111 W. Madison St., Room 312 Tallahassee, FL 32399-1475.
social services, health, domestic violence, family safety, child abuse and neglect, emergency shelter, batterers, intervention programs, supervised visitation certified domestic violence centers, temporary assistance to needy families