Assessing Vulnerable Victims

Centre for Criminal Justice Research and Partnerships

This project seeks to explore the vulnerability factors (e.g. prior traumatisation, coping, resilience, personality, social support) in adult victims of violence that may impact upon their capacity to engage with support services, and avoid or reduce subsequent repeat victimisation.

The longitudinal study will investigate psychological and psychosocial variables that can predict which victims are least likely to engage with available services, in addition to those who are most likely to be repeat victims.

The focus is very much on applying empirical research to aid practitioners in assessing vulnerability and identifying services that benefit adult victims of violence based on their profile.

Project Lead

  • Dr Nicola Graham-Kevan

Project Staff

  • Dr Michelle Lowe
  • Dr Roxanne Khan
  • Dr Victoria Willan
  • Matthew Brooks
  • May Irving

Timeline

  • 2013-Present

Impact 

The data from this project will be used to develop an individual assessment tool and referral protocol that can be used by professionals to identify vulnerable adult victims of violence.

Collaborators and partners

  • Lancashire Constabulary
  • Victim Support Preston
  • Preston Domestic Violence Services

Funders

  • European Union Grant