. In the absence of a costing framework of the DVA, service delivery was severely impeded, hence resulting in the poor implementation of the Act. . Gender-based violence disproportionately affects women and children. Notwithstanding this, the committee acknowledges that based on the submissions received, persons with disabilities, women and children living on farms, in rural areas and impoverished environments were considerably less likely to have access to effective help. As a result, they may have to endure violent and abusive relationships for longer and thus experience more serious long-term, consequences than those with better access to help and resources. . Patriarchal attitudes and differential power dynamics were at the heart of domestic violence. . Many victims of domestic violence were unaware that their rights were violated and even when they knew, struggled to access the appropriate support services. Lack of co-ordination