Abstract
This study explored challenges faced by service providers supporting South Asian immigrant survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV) in the United States and strategies to enhance culturally responsive, trauma-informed, survivor-centered, and accessible services. Between June 2021 and July 2023, 10 providers from mainstream and South Asian-focused agencies in Florida and Texas were interviewed. Using the Ecological Systems Theory, we examined multi-level influences on service provision. Data analysis was facilitated by ATLAS.ti software. Providers identified significant barriers hindering survivors from help-seeking, including fear, precarious immigration status, cultural norms, and economic dependency. Informal networks are initial contacts, providing mixed support. Formal organizations face ecosystem structural gaps, such as limited access to legal aid and housing, and cultural barriers, including shelter conditions and rigid procedures. Building trust with survivors is also considered crucial. Recommendations included personal outreach, cultural training, expanded culturally specific services, and cross-sector partnerships. Findings emphasize the need for culturally responsive, trauma-informed services that acknowledge survivors' intersectional identities. Strategic collaboration between mainstream and South Asian-focused organizations is vital and policy reforms for addressing structural vulnerabilities are critical for improving help-seeking pathways. Future research should explore differences within South Asian communities to help providers develop trust-based pathways that connect informal and formal support systems.