Experiences of victims of IPV regarding the role of victim empowerment programmes in tackling their social and housing needs

Intimate Partner Violence (IPV), or simply partner violence, is a human rights abuse and an important public health problem. Despite all the success and endeavors towards empowering women, the victims remain disempowered and susceptible. A qualitative research design was utilized, underpinned by a phenomenological, exploratory research design, to attempt to understand the experiences of IPV victims and inform practice guidelines. The study aimed to develop an understanding of the role of VEP in empowering IPV victims in Gauteng. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews with a sample of fifteen IPV victims. The non-probability purposive sampling strategy allowed the researcher to choose based on discretion by purposively sampling individuals according to accessibility and appropriateness, and such a participant exemplified specific characteristics of the research. The study has revealed a compelling imperative to move beyond short-term emergency shelter arrangements and focus on long-term housing solutions for IPV survivors. Programs must ensure access to decent, permanent housing at an affordable cost, which offers stability and a foundation for survivors to re-establish their lives.