The objective of this thesis is to collect information and survey what specifically is involved in domestic violence made by women and getting help to their violent behavior. This research aims to clarify what kind of developing proposals employees have about the services for women who have committed domestic violence. The purpose of this thesis is to produce information aimed at developing services for women in The Federation of Mother and Child Homes and Shelters.

The target group of this research and its questionnaire are employees who work with violence in outpatient services in member associations of The Federation of Mother and Child Homes and Shelters. The survey was sent around Finland to the employees, who work with women who have used domestic violence. 18 employees responded to the questionnaire. In this qualitative research the method of analysis was data-driven content analysis.

In this research violence made by women can be physical and mental and it is directed to children, spouse or both. There are multiple reasons for the violence. Women who use violence have almost invariably experienced violence in their childhood and/or relationship. The results of the research revealed that there aren’t services for women who are violent or getting access to help isn’t easy. It can be the case that women don’t know that there are services or where they could get help. The employees experienced that getting help is enabled if a woman wants to get help and can be encouraged to receive help. Although concern for themselves and their children can increase motivation. In this research shame and fear of losing children are particularly issues that prevents women seeking and receiving help for violent behaviour.

The services for women who have used violence should be developed so that they would be easy to access. The employees think that there should be low-threshold services and preventive services. The services can be developed when employees have education and training so that their knowledge increases. It would be beneficial Social and Health care education would be more informative on the subject and provide training for domestic violence and work with violence. There should also be more education for broaching issues related to violence.

Domestic violence should be brought up in dialogue with the person, so they are consulted in an way that makes them feel appreciated and listened to. Peer support for women, especially in group conversations and activities, should be enabled and developed. Communities should be increasing in their work with clients, workplaces and society. Intervening in domestic violence should be of great importance and it should be everyone’s concern.