What are the services available to women affected by domestic violence in UK?

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CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION

Background

As indicated by government survey, at least one in four women are likely to be subjected to domestic violence at some point in their life. The percentage however declines when the survey was extended to record the rate of domestic violence in relevance to men, with the results indicating one in six men as likely to experience domestic violence at some point in their life. This clearly indicates the increased level of domestic violence for women and hence the worsening consequences they face. This directly reflects on the need for the effective services that should be at disposal of women who have been subjected to domestic violence, so that they could be able to lead their lives normally again.

In addition to the percentage rate that is mentioned above, women are more likely to be the victim of repeat domestic violence and subsequent harms and damages (Robinson, 2009). Although domestic violence is not restricted to the demographics; race, religion, caste, creed, sexual orientation, age disability, gender, income or identity, yet it is seen that women are being targeted excessively by the perpetrators of domestic violence.

With the incidence of domestic violence being consistently increasing, the victims of domestic violence as well as abuse have now started to gain support of employers, trade unions and significant others so that they can find employment and remain financially stable among other necessities so as to spend a normal life. Not only do they need financial support but they are vulnerable regardless of the dimension from which they are viewed (Platek, 2009, pp. 608). They are in need of an environment that is in compliance of the quality health and safety standards so that their health and safety remains protected from the consequences that may arise out of the domestic violence or domestic abuse they have been through. Their performance may also depict significant decline and hence to restore them to their previous self, it is important for them to be sent to or enrolled in specialist advice or services; that are exclusively directed towards women and people who are being victimised by domestic violence.

As defined by the government of United Kingdom, domestic violence comprises of any incident that can be classified as a threatening behaviour, violence, act or abuse. The incident may well range from psychological an emotional to physical and sexual as well as financial and it is exercised by one's close relative or family member hence the name 'Domestic Violence'. One of the most common thematic concept that is characterised as domestic violence is 'honour killing', the concern widely spread and common among Black and minority ethnic (BME) groups.

Although, as evident in the definition given by the UK government of Domestic Violence, it is exercised regardless of ones' gender or sexuality, however considering the above example of honour killing, it is women who have been found as being subjected to honour killing more than ...