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Domestic abuse affects victims from all ethnic backgrounds, with no indicators that victims from certain cultural communities are at a higher risk. However, the type of abuse that might be experienced may differ between cultures. In some ethnic communities, abuse may be committed by extended family members, parents or parents-in-law and forced marriages may occur.

Rape, enslavement, false imprisonment, financial abuse, physical violence, emotional abuse are some forms of domestic abuse that victims may be subjected to within forced marriages.

Some cultural beliefs can deter victims from seeking help; these may include sharam (shame) and izzat (honour). The stigma attached to these barriers may leave victims struggling to escape from an abusive relationship as they may be pressurised by family members to remain married to protect the family’s honour.

Women are also often being told to show Subbur (patience) while their lives are quietly destroyed. This is not condoned by any faith.

Domestic abuse should not be kept quiet. At Duncan Lewis Solicitors we provide confidential and practical advice on legal remedies available to victims of abuse. If you are suffering from domestic violence please call our domestic violence helpline on 0800 689 3275 and if you are not fluent in English we can arrange for you to talk to a member of staff who speaks your chosen language.