Dr. Omolade Femi-Ajao
The University of Manchester
Immigration as a factor influencing disclosure and help-seeking for domestic violence and abuse: Evidence from a qualitative study among Nigerians resident in England, UK
Domestic Violence and Abuse (DVA) is a form of gender-based violence affecting one-third of all women globally. Existing evidence from research conducted in immigrant-receiving countries suggests that, immigration status may have an impact on patterns of disclosure and help-seeking. However, there is a dearth of evidence on the impact of immigration on the lived experience of domestic abuse. Using a cross-sectional qualitative research design, Nigerian women (n = 16) with lived experience of DVA, and leaders (n=9) in England, were interviewed. Findings from the study showed that intimidation by the perpetrator, fear of deportation, and risk of destitution, were immigration-specific factors that negatively affected the disclosure and help-seeking practices of Nigerian women with lived experience of DVA, thus preventing them from seeking help. In conclusion, there is a need for improved statutory service provision for immigrant women with lived experience of domestic violence and abuse.
C.K. Choi Building, Room 120
Lunch will be available prior to the lecture, at 11:45 am.
