Reema Mehta

Stakeholders’ Perspectives on the Together for Equality and Respect (TFER) Strategy for the Primary Prevention of Violence against Women in the Eastern Region of Melbourne: A Qualitative Data Analysis

Violence against women is a significant issue from individual to global level. All major international public health orgnanisations have considered it as a harmful violation of human rights and an important public health issue. Together For Equality and Respect (TFER) is a partner strategy in the Eastern metropolitan region of Melbourne which focuses on the collective health promotion efforts of partners for the primary prevention of violence against women in the region. The aim of this qualitative study was to assess stakeholders’ perspectives on impacts of the TFER and to identify the enablers and barriers if any. A total of 16 participants (five from Local Governments, five from Community Health Organisations, one from Community Organisation, and five from Primary Health Organisations) took part in a semi-structured interview. Analysis found significant impact of TFER strategy on the partner organisations in terms of extended reach in the primary prevention field and community with organisations’ capacity building and resource provision. Supportive political climate and strong relationships amongst the partners are real enablers in creating long term sustained actions. While competition, diversity in working pattern and understanding and lack of proper attention or knowledge towards PVAW are identified as barriers. Collective impact health promotion approach can be considered for other health promotion programs as it provides the equal opportunity and avoids duplication of efforts as well as resources. The collective impact approach can be used for other health promotion programs with necessary requirements.

A copy of the full thesis is available here.