Ethnic Minority Seminar Explores Domestic Violence

“As a local Policing Partnership we are committed to looking at specific safety issues for minority groups, ensuring that the same services are provided no matter who wishes to access support. I am delighted at the turnout of people who have come along to the event today” [caption id="attachment_21103" align="alignleft" width="400" caption="At the ethnic minority domestic violence seminar were Una Turbitt, EDRCN, Patricia Lyness, Women's Aid, Max Petrushkin, NICEM, Una Kelly, DDPP. Down District Council Chairman Councillor Eamonn O'Neill, PSNI DI Richard Graham, PPU, and Sheila Simmons, South Eastern Trust."][/caption] Una Turbitt, Ethnic Minority Development Worker with teh EDRCN added, “These issues need to be highlighted not only in the Down district, but across Northern Ireland. There are gaps in the services available for migrant women who are experiencing domestic violence and this seminar has helped to show that we continuously strive to address those gaps. “Domestic violence can result in serious psychological and physical harm to the victim, and to his or her family. However, violence in the home can also have significant practical implications. During 2003 – 2004 approximately 700 households who presented themselves to the Housing Executive as homeless, stated domestic violence as the cause of homelessness.” Patricia McMurray, Co-ordinator of South Eastern Domestic Violence Partnership, commented, “Victims of domestic violence come from all geographical, social, economic, class and cultural boundaries. Some people, especially those with insecure immigration status, are particularly vulnerable to abuse and exploitation. A person’s nationality and legal status can impact on their ability to seek protection and may determine whether they seek help or remain in an abusive situation. Perpetrators aware of these pressures can use this to exacerbate the abuse.” Also, PSNI Detective Inspector Richard Graham highlighted that there may be compounding factors for people from migrant and minority ethnic communities who are suffering domestic abuse, such as racial harassment and discrimination. In addition, increased isolation, family and/or community pressure or collusion to keep the abuse a secret and cultural factors and language difficulties may also be significant barriers to people seeking help and advice. For further information on any of these issues, please visit www.womensaid.org.uk or callxa00800 9171414. The seminar also included presentations by representatives from The Law Centre, Women’s Aid, Human Rights Commission, the PSNI and the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust.xa0 This project is supported by PEACE III Programme, managed by the Special EU Programmes Body and delivered by the North Down, Ards and Down Peace III Partnership.]]>