Policy Guidelines

Based on our literature review and engagement with both shelter partners and experts in the field, we established the following as our guiding principles for shelter policies:

Intersectionality

Violence against women is shaped not only by gender but also by class and race. Intersectional policy analysis addresses the way specific acts and policies interact with inequalities experienced by social groups.

Trauma-Informed Policies

The following trauma-informed principles should be incorporated into policies:

• Acknowledgment that trauma is pervasive
• Safety (including emotional)
• Voice, choice and control
• Compassion
• Strengths-based
• Peer support Empowerment
• Trust and transparency
• Empathy
• Non-judgmental
• Policy Primers
• Policy Templates

Human Rights-based Approach

A conceptual framework for the process of human development based on international human rights legislation that aims to enhance and protect human rights. 

In addition to our guiding principles, we have viewed our policy research, collection, and development through the following lenses:

We’ve developed some policy templates, guidelines, and examples for you to get started on shelter policies.