Programmes have been developed, policies have been adopted and awareness activities continue to take place across the country.
Despite this work, many survivors continue to encounter barriers when they seek assistance. Some experience delays when trying to access services. Others struggle to navigate multiple systems while dealing with trauma and uncertainty. The review raises an important question about whether the work being done is resulting in meaningful improvements in the lives of those most affected by violence.
Survivor impact refers to the difference that interventions make in the lives of people who have experienced gender-based violence. It considers whether survivors are able to access services when they need them and whether those services respond to their circumstances in a timely and supportive manner.
This matters because a programme can be implemented successfully from an institutional perspective while still falling short of what survivors need. A policy can exist. A service can be available. An awareness campaign can take place. Yet a survivor may still struggle to obtain information or access support and justice.
For local 100-Day Challenge teams, this finding provides an important point of reflection. It encourages teams to pay attention to what people experience when they interact with institutions and support services. It also encourages teams to consider whether their efforts are contributing to outcomes that can be recognised by the people whose lives they hope to improve.
Survivor Impact.