Sexual Assault Victim Advocates in Virginia: Challenges Faced in the Field

In 2004, Virginia State Senate Joint Resolution 131 led to a study of services for sexual assault victims in Virginia. (Barbosa, Carmody, Gainey, Payne,Plichta, Sajko, Vandecar-Burdin, 2005) Utilizing a variety of research methodologies, the study examined the response by law enforcement, criminal justice, medical and social service agencies. It also included interviews with sexual assault victim advocates and focus group interviews with various professionals. This article summarizes major findings from the focus groups as well as the in-depth interviews with twenty- three sexual assault victim advocates in Virginia. It highlights the challenges they face and recommendations for change.