The National Rural Crime Network's Domestic Abuse report: One year on

The National Rural Crime Network's (NRCN) Domestic Abuse report was published one year ago, and it shone a light on the shocking picture of domestic abuse in rural Britain, and just how prevalent those feelings of being isolated, unsupported and left behind were, and are, for the victims of this life altering offence.

A year on, some important steps have been taken despite these uncertain and unprecedented times that have been slowing the process down. The Domestic Abuse Bill was introduced towards the end of last year which was a positive step in the right direction, however there is still more that could be done in order to reflect the needs of victims and survivors throughout our rural communities who are still too hidden away.

The original report, which can be found here, details alarming findings and statistics that can only be met with an intense urgency to confront the issues and help the victims as much as we can; from government and the police to the neighbours and friends in our own communities.

To mark the one year since its publication, the NRCN have released the following on their website, which you can read in full here.

Captive & Controlled - One Year On: What's Changed?

In July 2019, the National Rural Crime Network revealed an alarming picture - the truth behind domestic abuse in rural Britain, with hidden victims being found to be 'isolated, unsupported and unprotected.' One year on from its launch, we consider what has changed since the release of the report, and whether there has been progress on the recommendations made.

Last year's report revealed that abuse lasts, on average, 25% longer in the most rural areas, the policing response is often largely inadequate, and the more rural the setting, the higher risk of harm. The harrowing finds of the report also revealed rurality and isolation are deliberately used as weapons by abusers.