Adapting Services In a Time of Crisis: Service Providers’ Perspectives on Working with Immigrant and Refugee Women Survivors of Intimate Partner Violence during COVID-19

Background and Purpose:

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a pervasive public health and social justice issue that disproportionately affects immigrant and refugee women in the United States. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, service providers (SPs) already faced significant challenges in supporting immigrant women of color (IWOC), particularly in balancing survivor safety with social and emotional well-being. The COVID-19 pandemic intensified these challenges, as lockdowns and stay-at-home orders increased survivors’ exposure to abusive partners while simultaneously disrupting access to critical support systems. Emerging research suggests that both the frequency and severity of IPV escalated during this period, while service delivery systems struggled to adapt to rapidly changing conditions.

Guided by an intersectional feminist framework and a trauma-informed care approach, this study explores SPs’ experiences supporting immigrant and refugee women survivors of IPV during the COVID-19 pandemic. Specifically, it examines how pandemic-related disruptions shaped service delivery, amplified survivor vulnerabilities, and influenced system-level responses. The study also investigates structural barriers—including language access, immigration-related concerns, financial dependency, and limited access to technology—that heightened risks for IWOC during this period. Additionally, it highlights adaptive strategies and innovations developed by providers to sustain services amid unprecedented constraints.

Methods:

This study is part of a larger mixed-methods project conducted in a Midwestern U.S. state using a Community-Based Participatory Research framework. A community advisory board, composed of representatives from seven agencies serving immigrant and refugee populations, guided the research process to ensure cultural responsiveness and shared decision-making. The qualitative sample (N = 19) was drawn using a nested sampling approach from an initial survey phase. Participants completed semi-structured, in-depth interviews via Zoom lasting 45–60 minutes. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using the Rapid and Rigorous Qualitative Analysis technique, followed by a structured thematic analysis process to identify key patterns and themes.

Results

Findings reveal several critical themes. First, SPs reported a significant rise in IPV and related forms of gender-based violence, often described as a “shadow pandemic.” Second, service delivery rapidly shifted to virtual formats, creating both opportunities for increased accessibility and challenges related to privacy, technological barriers, and reduced engagement. Third, systemic inequities were exacerbated during the pandemic, with IWOC facing intensified barriers such as fear of deportation, delays in immigration processing, economic instability, and limited access to culturally and linguistically appropriate services. Fourth, despite these challenges, SPs demonstrated innovation and resilience through strategies such as mobile advocacy, strengthened community partnerships, and flexible service models.

Conclusion and Implications:

Overall, this study underscores the importance of culturally grounded, flexible, and trauma-informed service models that address the unique and intersecting needs of immigrant and refugee women. Strengthening cross-sector collaboration, investing in digital equity, and addressing structural barriers are essential for improving service delivery and outcomes for marginalized survivors, particularly during public health crises.