Domestic violence and abuse within Roma and Traveller communities: a scoping review

Domestic violence and abuse (DVA) is a global human rights problem. This scoping review focuses on the characteristics, impacts and risk and protective factors for DVA within Roma and Traveller communities. Applying a socio‐ecological model for thematic analysis, this review underscores the pervasive influence of patriarchal and gendered norms, which manifest at the individual, family and community levels and prevent women from escaping abusive relationships. No studies on men as victims/survivors were included. The normalisation of DVA within familial and communal settings and a deficiency in specialised support tailored to the unique requirements of Roma and Traveller women are interconnected factors associated with this complex issue. Through critical analysis of current social work practices, we identify such implications as the need for improved knowledge and sensitivity around cultural norms, enhanced understanding of the barriers to disclosure and enhanced understanding of both the risk and protective factors for victims/survivors from Roma and Traveller communities.