Back to Understanding Abuse in Different Communities
People from Gypsy, Roma and Traveller (GRT) communities can experience all forms of domestic and sexual abuse, including physical, emotional, sexual, financial and online abuse.
GRT communities are diverse, with different cultures, traditions and experiences. While abuse can happen in any relationship, some individuals may face additional risks or barriers linked to discrimination, access to services, and community expectations.
Abuse is never acceptable and is not part of any culture or way of life.
As well as common forms of abuse, people from GRT communities may experience:
People from GRT communities may face additional challenges when seeking support. Research and service providers highlight that barriers can be both structural and social, making it harder to access safe and appropriate support.
These may include:
Many also face judgement or isolation within their community when leaving an abusive relationship, particularly in close-knit communities.
In some cases, people seeking help may encounter misunderstanding, discrimination, or a lack of appropriate support from services, which can further discourage them from reaching out.
These barriers can make it more difficult to access support or feel safe doing so.
Source:
Domestic abuse commissioner: ‘Working with domestic abuse victims in the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller community’ (1)
NHS Race & Health Observatory: ‘Inequalities in Mental health care for Gypsy, Roma, and Traveller Communities’ 2023. (2)
These misconceptions can silence victims, minimise their experiences, or prevent them from seeking help.
Understanding the reality of abuse helps create safer communities where people feel supported and believed.
Fact
People from GRT communities may face barriers such as digital exclusion, discrimination, and lack of culturally appropriate support, which can make it harder to access help.
Fact
Abuse is never part of any culture or community. It is about power and control, and it can happen in any relationship, and it is not right.
will have experienced domestic abuse at some point in their lives, according to estimates
1
than the general population, according to research
2
Sources:
Parliament UK: Tackling inequalities faced by Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities (1)
NHS Race & Health Observatory: ‘Inequalities in Mental health care for Gypsy, Roma, and Traveller Communities’ 2023. (2)
Support is available, and you do not have to face this alone. You can contact the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Helpline for confidential support, information and guidance.
You may also find it helpful to explore specialist support services for Gypsy, Roma & Traveller (GRT) Communities :
028 9043 8265
mail@anmuniatober.org
An Munia Tober is a Traveller support group which works on achieving a situation where Travellers in Belfast have access to all services that meet their social, economic and cultural needs, and are included as equal citizens in a new multicultural society.
028 3834 2089
manager@ctsc.uk
Craigavon Travellers Support Committee works with Travellers to improve their quality of life.
020 7607 2002
info@travellermovement.org.uk
The Traveller Movement works to support the rights and wellbeing of the Traveller community.
028 9043 8316
info@nexusni.org
Provides counselling and support for survivors of sexual abuse and sexual violence in Northern Ireland.
0800 0246 991
Rape Crisis Northern Ireland is a non-governmental organisation and support service for anyone who is 16 and over and has experienced serious sexual assault and rape in adulthood.
028 9040 1280
therowan@northerntrust.hscni.net
Regional Sexual Assault Referral Centre offering medical and forensic support to survivors.