Fifteen Years of Children in Domestic Violence Shelters – A Journey of Progression and Lost Opportunities

Abstract Purpose The purpose of this article is to shed light on how the situation of children in domestic violence shelters in Norway has progressed over the last 15 years. We ask; how has the situation for children changed from 2008 until today? How do children themselves understand the situation? Can children be understood as service users today, as defined in the 2010 Norwegian Domestic Violence Shelter Act? How do shelters currently use the “window of opportunity” in terms of fulfilling children’s rights and needs? Methods Leaders in domestic violence shelters in Norway were surveyed in 2008 and 2010. The results of these surveys were compared to results from a survey answered by child-focused practitioners and leaders in domestic violence shelters in 2023. In addition, qualitative interviews were conducted with 23 children and young people, 5 to 23 years old, who all were staying, or had recently stayed, at a shelter in Norway. Results There had been progress with regard to almost all issues that were compared between 2008/2010 and 2023. More staff are now employed specifically for children, children receive more counseling and information, are able to visit friends, and the shelters cooperate more with other agencies. However, although more children continue schooling, many do not. Fewer children receive visits from friends, and social media compromises their security. Conclusion The situation for children in shelters has improved considerably. Today, children are seen as rights-holders and agents. However, progress still must be made before the full potential of the window is used.