Developmental evaluation of before it happens: examining human service providers levels of comfort in detecting vulnerability

Abstract

This developmental evaluation was completed for the Before it Happens project, a 36 month federally funded project targeted to prevent violence to women and girls through multi-sector collaboration. As a research practicum student, I had four primary objectives in this project; to develop my academic, professional research skills, to develop qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis skills, to develop my training skills and finally to develop a comprehensive understanding of the ways research can influence social work practice, policy and training materials. These objectives were achieved through completing a comprehensive literature review in the areas of gender-based violence prevention programs, collaboration and developmental evaluation. After completing the literature review to have an understanding of best practices and approaches in the areas of gender based violence reduction programs, community collaboration and developmental evaluation, interview questions and questionnaires were designed to gather information from participants in the evaluation. With these tools in mind, I assisted with the development and delivery of a training package for the Vulnerability Displacement Protocol. During my research practicum, I continually documented and reflected on my understanding as well as the broader implications that research can have on social work practice and my role in using research to influence policy and training materials. Limitations included the time restrictions of the project and the availability of organizations to participate. Recommendations include a higher level of Indigenous engagement and consultation, organization uptake and community awareness and finally time management.