Women/men have additional problems when obstacles prevent them from seeking help. Examples of these might be:
A professional working person, who may be particularly ashamed or embarrassed with regard to living in a violent relationship and would find it difficult to obtain an injunction without the assistance of legal aid (this can cost up to £2000).
A sex trade worker who may have experienced discrimination by agencies that are currently providing services maybe concerned about being believed.
A woman/man in a same sex relationship might be afraid of being judged because of her/his sexual choices, making them feel more isolated and not able to get the same treatment as a heterosexual person.
A woman/man with dependency problems (alcohol, soft and hard drugs, often associated with a violent situation) or mental health problems may feel they will not be believed and therefore will not be helped.
A black or racial minority person who has experienced racism may have a fear of approaching the police and other agencies for help.
Disabled person whose carer may also be the perpertrator, how would they cope or manage without this person ?