Powys farmer says abuse from dad was 'torture' and wants more support - BBC News
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'Dad dragged me out of bed by my hair to work' – rural abuse victims want more support
Image caption: Tracy Lewis, a Powys farmer, shares her experience of growing up in a farm marked by physical and emotional abuse.
By Gemma Dunstan | BBC Wales | Published 6 October 2026 | Updated 2 hours ago
Warning: This story contains content that some readers might find distressing.
Growing Up on a Farm Amidst Abuse
Tracy Lewis, now 48, recalls her childhood on a farm in Llanbister, Powys, as both beautiful and terrifying. While she loved the animals, her father's physical and emotional abuse left deep scars.
A Trapped Childhood
"I remember my father pulled me out of bed by my hair to go and lamb a ewe," Tracy recounts. Her mother, bloodied and bruised, warned her, "You have to get the lamb out or we're both going to die."
Tracy's story is not unique; many rural abuse survivors face challenges specific to their isolated communities. She explains:
"The farming world is the best place to be, neighbors will always help you out but abuse can be hidden very easily. Everyone knows everybody, but what goes on behind closed doors stays there."
Animal-Induced Trauma
Tracy's experiences were further marred by using animals as a catalyst for abuse. She shares:
"I was getting beaten up when something died, my mum was getting hurt when an animal was poorly. It felt like slavery... we loved the animals and farming but we were isolated and stuck."
A Secret Hidden in Plain Sight
Despite the bustling hustle and bustle of rural life, Tracy often contemplated reaching out for help. "The farm was her [her mother's] life," she says, referring to her mother's isolation. "She tried her best to protect us but... what goes on behind closed doors will stay there."
Financial Abuses and a Broken Promise
Tracy's father, now deceased, allegedly engaged in financial abuse, promising the family farm as an inheritance. After his death, Tracy discovered this was not to be, leading to a legal battle for ownership.
Rural Abuse: A Hidden Enigmatic Issue
Tracy is one of approximately 11 million rural dwellers in the UK, highlighting the widespread nature of potential abuse. The National Rural Crime Network underscores the hidden nature of such cases, with survivors often facing unique barriers to reporting and seeking help.