Responding to Intimate Partner Violence: Challenges Faced Among Service Providers in Northern Communities.

The current study examined the needs of women experiencing intimate partner violence (IPV) in a profiled northern community in Saskatchewan, Canada. A focus group was conducted with eight knowledgeable and experienced service providers to gain an increased understanding of the needs of women IPV survivors in northern regions of Canada. The discussion was guided by the question of "What do you see as the needs of women coming through your services with regard to intimate partner violence?" Qualitative analyses highlighted important findings pertaining to the unique needs of women experiencing IPV and the challenges service providers face in northern regions. Suggestions for improvement among resources and services were discussed. The findings will enhance the ability of government representatives and community service providers to decipher the effectiveness of support services and resources for women living in geographically diverse areas.