Rural domestic abuse survivors urged to complete survey
The National Rural Crime Network has launched their Domestic Abuse Survey to get the most accurate picture of how this crime affects people in rural areas.
Information taken from the survey will improve understanding of how domestic abuse affects people across the UK and will ultimately be used to help shape what services are made available for people in rural areas.
The survey, which can be accessed here and takes 5-10 minutes to complete, is aimed at North Yorkshire and six other areas of the country – Derbyshire; Devon and Cornwall; Durham; Lincolnshire; Nottinghamshire and Dorset – which also have large rural populations.
No personal details will be taken so all responses will remain anonymous.
The survey is open to people who have experienced any kind of domestic abuse – even if they were living in a city or large town at the time it took place.
This includes coercive behaviour such as controlling someone’s finances or access to their friends and family, as well as physical abuse.
Julia Mulligan, Police Fire and Crime Commissioner for North Yorkshire and Chair of the National Rural Crime Network said:
“Domestic abuse can affect anyone – whether they live in the smallest village or the biggest city – but sadly not enough is known nationally about the experiences of those living in rural areas. The National Rural Crime Network is now running the biggest ever survey which gives residents the chance to have their say and influence national policy.
“I would encourage anyone to take part in the survey as it is vital we continue to work hard to find out more about how services can be improved to help people who have been affected by this damaging crime.”
The National Rural Crime Network is supported by 29 Police and Crime Commissioners and police forces across England and Wales. The Network, established in July 2014, includes a wide range of organisations with an interest in community safety and rural affairs such as the National Farmers’ Union, Historic England, Neighbourhood Watch and Crimestoppers.