African and Caribbean Women Experiences of Gender-Based Violence and Help-Seeking From the Police in England and Wales: A Qualitative Study

The study aims to examine African and Caribbean women’s lived experiences of gender-based violence (GBV) and help-seeking from the police in England and Wales. Thirty-eight participants with lived experiences of GBV were recruited. Data were analyzed using the unique fusion of intersectionality and labelling theories. It found that gendered inequalities reproduced through the intersection of systemic abuse, cultural manifestations, and poor financial independence exacerbate GBV. Labelling through “otherness” was perceived to underpin poor police response and ignite distrust. Individualist culture shock, psychological distress, and poor support channel awareness limit the reporting of GBV. The study can be helpful for policymakers, researchers, and service providers in understanding and providing culturally appropriate psychosocial support and improving confidence in the police to encourage help-seeking.