COVID-19 PANDEMIC AND INTIMATE PARTNER VIOLENCE: EXPERIENCES AND OUTCOMES FOR SHELTERS' STAFF

Relatively few studies have addressed the impact of the COVID- 19 pandemic on IPV shelters and their staff. In this study, we conducted interviews with IPV shelter staff to examine 1) how shelters changed their work during the pandemic; 2) how staff described the occurrence of and response to vicarious trauma; and 3) what staff learned from their experience with the pandemic crisis. Three main themes emerged from the data. They include the following: 1) changes in organisational working conditions during the pandemic; 2) emotional challenges; and 3) positive effects of the pandemic. As in other countries, the pandemic in Croatia brought numerous challenges but also opportunities. Shelter staff demonstrated their strengths and commitment to supporting IPV victims during the pandemic. Their experiences should be used to develop an effective response to future crises.