On 6th April 2020, the charity Refuge announced that the National Domestic Abuse helpline has seen a 25% increase in calls and online requests for help since the Government announced its increased restrictive lockdown measures.
Refuge also said that visits to the UK-wide National Domestic Abuse helpline website for information were 150% higher than during the last week in February.
These are particularly difficult and worrying times for victims of domestic abuse, and the professionals working hard to support them.
Adults and children living with domestic abuse are likely to be spending concentrated periods of time with their abusers putting them at an increased risk of physical, emotional, psychological, sexual, and/or coercive or controlling behaviour.
Campaigners have raised concerns that the Government imposed lockdown restrictions could shut down victims’ routes to safety and support.
Guidance on COVID-19 and support for victims of domestic abuse
On 29th March 2020, the Government published guidance on Covid-19 and support for victims of domestic abuse. The Guidance can be accessed by clicking on the following link.
This guidance highlights the help and support available to victims of domestic abuse and how the Government is working with the charity sector and the police to ensure that these support services remain open during this difficult time.
If you believe that you are being abused, the following services can help you.
Where can I get help?
If you are in immediate danger and unable to talk on the phone, you can use the Silent Solution system by calling 999 then, instead of speaking to the operator, pressing 55. The operator will transfer the call to the relevant police force as an emergency.
Check our previous blog on Covid-19 implications for victims of domestic abuse, here, which contains a list of organisations that are able to support victims of domestic abuse and details of how we, at Fisher Jones Greenwood LLP, can help and advise you.
Of course, the rules that we must follow during this pandemic are constantly changing and the government websites and advice should be checked regularly. If you would like advice about Domestic Abuse issues, please contact our Family Team on 01206 700113 or email [email protected].
Credit – blog post written by Precious Yilmaz.