RURAL DOMESTIC ABUSE

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.