Policing domestic violence and its effect on child upbringing, a case of Hoima west policing division

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to investigate the effect of policing domestic violence on child upbringing using, a case of Hoima West policing division. The objectives were to examine the relationship between timely domestic response and child upbringing in Hoima West policing division, ii) to assess the relationship between case handling and child upbringing in Hoima West policing division and iii) to analyse the relationship between victim support and child upbringing in Hoima West policing division. The study adopted a cross-sectional research design and employed a mixed method research approach. Simple random sampling and purposive sampling were used to select 150 respondents who were drawn from a population of 250 individuals. The data was collected using self-administered questionnaire and interview guide. Results for objective one showed that the policing of domestic violence in Hoima West is perceived as low in effectiveness, timeliness and coordination. Respondents highlighted challenges such as unclear procedures, limited use of risk assessment tools, weak reporting mechanisms and delayed interventions. It was also revealed that case handling of domestic violence in Hoima West is generally perceived as inadequate, primarily due to resource constraints, inconsistent enforcement of laws, insufficient training and weak coordination with community-based organizations. The study also revealed that victim support services in Hoima West are perceived as limited and insufficient in addressing the needs of children affected by domestic violence. Counselling centers, temporary shelters and other support services are under-resourced and fragmented, leaving children vulnerable to prolonged exposure to abuse. It was also recommended that the Hoima West policing division should prioritize the development and implementation of standardized procedures for handling domestic violence cases to ensure timely and consistent responses. The study also recommended that the division should establish formal coordination mechanisms with community-based organizations, social services, and local leaders, including regular joint planning and follow-up meetings. It was also recommended that the division should allocate dedicated resources, including funding, transport, and personnel, to support victim assistance programs and follow-up visits; this recommendation is directed to the Police Command and Resource Management Unit, as adequate resourcing ensures continuity of support and protection for children.