Polish Women’s Experiences of Domestic Violence and Abuse in the United Kingdom: the Role of the Nursing Profession

<p>IntroductionThis study investigated experiences of domestic violence and abuse, and service responses by Polish women living in the UK. It sought to understand why domestic abuse services receive few referrals from Polish women despite the Polish community constituting the second largest foreign-born group in the UK and to examine their health seeking-behaviours and experience of services.MethodWe conducted 28 life history interviews with Polish survivors of domestic violence and 18 semi-structured interviews with practitioners from domestic abuse, statutory and voluntary services across the UK.ResultsWomen had to contend with multiple forms of abuse, with coercive and controlling behaviour being most common, but always accompanied by other forms (physical, psychological, economic, sexual). Women’s understandings of abuse were shaped by their migration experience (personal identity, social isolation, practical concerns) along with discourses in Poland around the family and alcohol. Recognising the abuse was a complex, gradual process that often required outside intervention from friends, family or services. This delayed their accessing services and reluctance to discuss their abuse when seeking healthcare for other reasons.Discussion and ConclusionThere is a need for practitioners to recognise how women’s understanding and experiences of abuse are shaped by their background, migration history and settlement status. Women have a need for information and support to help navigate societal, legislative and practice landscapes related to domestic abuse. Health professionals have a need for specialised training to be able to recognise the signs of domestic abuse and signpost/refer victims to relevant services as appropriate.</p>