Some Somali women say they feel lonely and isolated

Bristol , October 05, 2007 – A dozen Somali families are being moved out of a troubled estate in Bristol because of racist attacks.

The city council said a handful of residents on the Hillfields estate, in the east of the city, have caused abuse, violence and harassment.

Incidents have included scarves being pulled off and verbal abuse.

The council added that anti-racism groups were working in the area and it was hoped the perpetrators would be brought to justice.

Nura Aabe, from the Bristol Somali Women's Group, said: "We feel very lonely and isolated and the fact that you have to stay inside to be safe.

"It's really difficult because at the end of the day you suffer alone and nobody else knows what you go through on a daily basis."

The authorities say the causes of the hatred are complex, but that housing is seen as one divisive issue.

Alan Jones, from the Hillfields Area Housing Committee, said: "The parents are saying, 'oh look, they're getting all the houses'.

"The children are hearing this and they're reacting on what their parents are saying within the home.

"If we got rid of the housing problem, that would go a long way."

Source: BBC