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Domestic violence is not commonly
spoken about in general and within groups suffering
discrimination, the subject may be avoided even more. Victims
may face the difficulty of persecution from within their own
family and community if they try to get help. They may believe
they have too much to lose by leaving e.g. religious or
cultural beliefs may forbid divorce or they may fear their
family will disown them.
Individuals may not speak English as their first language, and
consideration must be given to the range of languages spoken and
agencies should not use family members as translators.
Some individuals may fear they will lose their right to stay in
the country if they separate from their partner, and may have been
threatened with this by the abuser. They may fear the abuser
(having links with another country) will take their children abroad
without their consent. If this is the case, please seek legal
advice.
Within Medway there is a
specialist refuge and attached services (this
link opens in a new window) set up to help meet the needs of BME
women and children.
Minority ethnic counselling service: 01634 333
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