Information available concerning abuse issues faced by
men and woman from Eastern Europe suggests they
face similar issues in reporting domestic abuse as those from other
ethnic communities.
Women in particular feel isolated with little or no family
support where they live and they can often face language barriers
to seeking help or reporting the abuse to police.
The stigma attached to speaking out about domestic abuse can
cause emotional conflict in women and be a real
barrier to them seeking help.
They may face pressure from their partners or ex-partner’s
family, who can exert emotional control to influence and place
blame on them for the problems within their relationship. There can
also be pressure from their own family and
friends for them to make a success of their lives
when they go overseas and there is a real stigma attached to
divorce.
They can face additional pressure to make the
relationship work regardless of the own feelings and the cost to
themselves due to financial responsibilities for other family
members who live in their own countries.
Speak Out
Domestic abuse is a crime.
There is no honour in committing the crime.
There is no shame in reporting the crime.
Report domestic abuse
Report domestic abuse to Cheshire Police on 999
if an emergency or 101 if you do not require
immediate police attendance.
Advice and support
Advice is available from the National Domestic Violence
Helpline - a 24-hour free phone advisory service on
0808 2000 247.
Help and advice is available from East European Advice
Centre 020 8741 1288