Report Overview
A National Rural Crime Network report highlights a shocking picture of domestic abuse in rural Britain with hidden victims – isolated, unsupported and unprotected – who are being failed by the system, services and those around them.
The results of an 18-month intensive research project, the study has analysed available evidence, spoken in depth to victims of abuse, assessed local support services and looked at the approach of the police.
The reports finding are a shocking read and highlight the urgency for a coordinated community response starting with investment in dedicated and specialist services in rural communities.
Report Conclusions
The report highlighted ten key conclusions which included:
- Domestic abuse lasts, on average, 25% longer in most rural areas – the report finds that exiting abuse is harder, takes longer and is more complex for rural victims as there are significant additional barriers in rural communities compared to urban areas.
- Rurality and isolation are used as a weapon by abusers – we now have clear evidence that abusers specifically move victims to rural settings to further isolate them, or systematically use the isolation to their advantage should they already be there. It not only facilitates abusers controlling their victims whilst in the relationship but makes it harder for victims to escape that abuse. Physical isolation is the arguably the best weapon an abuser has; and has a profound impact on making the victim feel quite literally captive.
- Close-knit rural communities facilitate abuse – strong community spirit is one of the joys of rural life, but it can be equally powerful in keeping domestic abuse hidden and in facilitating abuse – not knowingly, not willingly, but by virtue of the way communities are in rural Britain.
- The policing response is largely inadequate – whilst the service provided by the police is improving, feedback from victims shows the response in rural areas is not as good as that in urban areas. Some of this is due to a lack of female police officers being available in rural areas, as well as fewer officers with appropriate domestic abuse training. And the further the victim from a visible police presence (i.e. building) the less likely they are to call the police.
- Support services are scarce – less available, less visible and less effective – victims were clear that domestic abuse support services are much harder to find and much harder to engage with than in an urban setting. These services are also less effective in supporting rural victims and survivors once they manage to make contact.
Download the report for the full conclusions.