Intervention with Children Exposed to Gender Violence in the Family Meeting Points. Dysfunctions and challenges in Valencian Community

Abstract

In the present article we analyze the rules of the Family Meeting Points (hereinafter PEFs) in Valencian Community and their actions in cases of gender violence, having into account laws of the Autonomous Communities of Balearic Islands, Basque country, Catalonia and Aragon, too. Some problems are also identified in the PEFs when the referral comes from a procedure related to gender violence, focusing specifically on the dependents of the Department of Equality and Inclusive Policies of the Valencian Community. The conclusions highlight the extreme complexity of these situations, consequently it is recommended that 1) an assessment of the real need for referral to PEF by courts is carried out, 2) professionals in PEFs have specific training in gender violence and 3) coordination among all actors or agencies involved in these cases is improved. It is also necessary to resolve errors and delays that occur throughout the judicial route, since the decision to refer a case to PEF is taken until the moment that visits start in it.