My thesis focused on researching single mothers and what support systems are in place in cases of domestic violence. In the theoretical part, I have stated who single mothers are, defined domestic violence and listed all the forms of violence that occur. I mentioned psychological, physical, sexual and economic violence. I then went on to identify the causes of domestic violence and its consequences for women. I then went on to outline the role of social workers in cases of domestic violence and what their tasks are. I also described the support systems in more detail, describing crisis centres, safe houses and counselling and therapeutic services. I have also defined co-parenting after violence, what the dynamics are and what the role of ex-partners is. In the empirical part, I presented the findings that I came to by interviewing seven single mothers, who are caring for their children, as a result of past domestic violence perpetrated by their partner, and whether they are or have been in the last five years users of a safe house or a related organisation that focuses on women survivors of domestic violence. The questions were related to the history of their partnership and what challenges it brings in the present time. I was also interested in how long they have been single mothers and how the experience of violence has affected their role as mothers. I also asked them about their experience of support systems for mothers in their situation, what barriers they had encountered in seeking help, how they would rate the effectiveness of existing systems and what changes they would like to see. Additionally, I wanted to find out what role family members and friends play in their recovery, how they experience co-parenting with an ex-partner who has been violent and, finally, what helps them in their recovery after an experience of domestic violence. Through the interviewees' answers, I realised that motherhood is a very challenging experience for mothers who take care of children on their own, especially for victims of domestic violence. Domestic violence, including psychological and sometimes physical violence, has left a deep impact on mothers. Despite these difficulties, the women coped with the challenges as best they could, with the help of friends, family and professionals, although they often faced a lack of understanding and support in institutions such as the social work centre. Despite the difficulties they have faced in the past, the women want a happy and peaceful future for themselves and their children. It is important that the treatment of domestic violence is systemically changed and adapted to the needs of the victims.
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