RURAL DOMESTIC ABUSE
By Nicola Laver
Domestic abuse in rural areas lasts an average 25 per cent longer than in urban areas according to a major research project across seven police force areas in England. The report from the National Rural Crime Network 'uncovered a deeply hidden and disturbing side to rural life' from which it is hard for victims to escape. It found rural domestic abuse victims are failed by the system and are isolated, unsupported and unprotected; the abuse lasts significantly longer and victims are half as likely to report their abuse to others. Key findings include a higher the risk of harm the more rural the setting; close-knit rural communities facilitate abuse; and traditional, patriarchal communities control and subjugate women.