An ‘Invisible’ Problem? Uncovering the Nature of Racist Victimisation in Rural Suffolk

Abstract

The issue of racist victimisation in rural areas has been largely overlooked in academic and political circles, although there is growing evidence to suggest that the prevalence and impact of racism are significant problems for minority ethnic groups living in rural parts of England. This article aims to address the paucity of research conducted in the area by outlining the findings of a study conducted in rural parts of Suffolk (a county in the east of England), which was based upon a series of interviews with victims of racial harassment and local agency workers, a questionnaire survey of minority ethnic groups and focus groups with members of the county's established white rural communities. In highlighting the prejudiced attitudes and stereotypes that affect the day-to-day existence of rural Suffolk's minority ethnic population, the article draws attention to the alarming nature and extent of racial harassment in typically intransient communities, together with the perceived sense of isolation suffered by victims of such harassment. The article also discusses the reasons behind victims' reluctance to report racist incidents, and offers suggestions as to how local agencies can make much-needed improvements to their response to victims in rural areas.