Domestic abuse within the Roma community in Oldham was a significant issue, often hidden due to cultural barriers, language difficulties, fear of stigma, and religious taboo. There was a lack of awareness of the problem, limited access to support services, and a need to challenge harmful stereotypes.
Our task at EROM was to increase awareness of domestic abuse, provide accessible information and support, and empower Roma individuals and families to seek help.
We did this through Community Outreach:
Leaflet Distribution: Due to initial resistance from church leaders, we were unable to directly engage with congregations. However, we distributed informational leaflets in Romanian language to individuals entering and leaving churches, educating them about domestic abuse, support services, and legal rights.
Awareness Campaigns: We strategically placed posters in prominent locations within Roma shops and businesses to raise awareness about domestic abuse and encourage victims to seek help.
School Engagement: We sent informational leaflets about domestic abuse and the support services offered by our organisation to 60 local schools. These materials were designed to equip teachers and staff with the knowledge and resources to identify signs of abuse among Roma students and direct them towards appropriate support services. By raising awareness among school staff, we hope to ensure that Roma children and families receive timely and effective assistance.
Despite initial challenges, the project achieved the following results:
Increased Awareness: The community outreach activities, particularly the distribution of leaflets and the strategic placement of posters, significantly increased awareness of domestic abuse among Roma adults and children.
Improved Access to Support: The collaboration with support services resulted in increased access to specialised support for Roma victims.
Empowered Roma Individuals: The project empowered Roma individuals and families to seek help and report domestic abuse by providing them with the necessary information and support.
Stronger Community Networks: By engaging with schools and local organisations, we strengthened community networks and created a more supportive environment for Roma families.
By implementing a persistent and creative approach, the project made a significant impact on the lives of Roma families in Oldham, despite cultural and religious barriers. This success demonstrates the importance of understanding and addressing the unique challenges faced by marginalised communities.