Electronic footprints in the sand

Work led by SiDE CoInvestigator Aad van Moorsel is exploring the need for privacy in Internet-based social support systems. Working with domestic violence survivors at the Angelou Centre (a women’s support centre for BME (Black and Minority Ethnic) based in Newcastle upon Tyne, UK) the research investigates how to design and implement various technological features that can be used to assist domestic violence survivors.

The research engagement with the Angelou Centre covers various strands of work:

- the creation of secure web networking sites for the for the IDVA/ISVAs (independent domestic/sexual violence advisors) that work with them

- designing and implementing technologies to hide (from an abuser for instance) that an individual is seeking help (browsers on a USB stick, digital info on post cards, etc.)

- researching the technology usage profiles of survivors and designing technologies to deliver online support services to them in a way the best meets their needs

- improving engagement in the justice system

Digital technologies might provide opportunities to change the way government implements its services. In collaboration with Angelou, the Northumbria LCJB and the Ministry of Justice the researchers are executing a number of pilot studies to identify technological support for outreach and collaboration.

On the 6th July an event was held to train 60 North-East IDVA/ISVAs in Networking Technology.