An innovative Data sharing and Visualisation Tool (DAVIT) to improve domestic abuse data insight and multi-agency collaborations: An explorative study of acceptability, relevance and implementation considerations

Abstract

Objectives

Domestic Abuse (DA) is a public health concern impacting multiple sectors. Partnerships and coordinated responses from statutory agencies are vital to ensure DA survivors’ needs are met, but this is impeded by the accessibility of quality DA data. We present an innovative data sharing and visualisation tool (DAVIT) and its perceived potential to improve DA insight and multi-agency collaborations.

Study design

Qualitative exploratory study.

Methods

DAVIT was developed by Surrey County Council (SCC) through a consultation and prioritisation process with multi-agencies interested in DA. Focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted on Zoom with representatives of agencies responding to DA in Surrey area to obtain their views regarding the relevance, acceptability and the potential for implementing DAVIT into practice. Qualitative data analysis was guided by the updated Consolidation Framework of Implementation Research (CFIR).

Results

Fifteen individuals representing seven agencies participated in 1-h long FGDs. Participants perceived DAVIT as well-designed, simple to use and adaptable to the local context but it needed improvements in data quality and comprehensiveness. Our findings suggest that DAVIT could enable intelligent planning and allocation of resources, delivery of targeted interventions and commissioning of DA service. Organisations' networks and connections, favourable data governance structure, policies, and regulations (outer settings); availability of resources, knowledge & information (inner settings); and individuals’ capacity, competence and support from high-level leaders will all influence the implementation of DAVIT into practice.

Conclusions

DAVIT is acceptable and if improved and successfully implemented into practice could improve DA services. Provision of minimal training to data officers in organisations will maximize the utility of DAVIT. A clear data governance structure and data sharing framework will help the implementation of DAVIT.