Proposing a Model of Service Delivery for Victims/Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse (CSA) from Ethnic Minority Communities in Australia

Abstract

A systematic literature review on child sexual abuse (CSA) and ethnic minority communities was conducted to help address the current gap in knowledge in the area. This article reports on one explored theme-aspects of service delivery models identified as effective, as the basis for developing a model for Australia. The findings indicate two key aspects of effective service delivery: (i) models should be ecologically grounded to the specific cultural context, and (ii) individuals should be placed at the centre of intervention so their needs and experiences are not 'boxed in' by their ethnicity. The model proposed for the Australian context is guided by these two key principles. Service delivery models are important because they help guide practice and standardise treatment and support in the field. However, the model proposed here also values flexibility, cultural competency, a strengthsbased approach, an empowerment-based approach, intersectionality, and a feminist framework. These model elements are particularly relevant in relation to the family cohesion and support that collectivist cultures offer; whether, to what extent, and how they act as a risk or protective factor, or even both, is best determined by the victim/survivor. The utility of the model for practitioners and clients requires rigorous evaluation.

Collaborative Approaches to Addressing Domestic and Sexual Violence among Black and Minority Ethnic Communities in Southampton: A Case Study of Yellow Door

“…These elements differentiate them from their indigenous Anglo-Saxon counterparts in the United Kingdom. These factors should be considered when supporting members of these communities [27,28]. Siddiqui [29] argued that the high rate of domestic and sexual abuse among BME could be attributed to the more significant barriers they face due to intersectional discrimination based on factors such as race, class, caste, poverty overlaps and other multiples.…”