In order to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic, we have experienced drastic changes to our daily lives, and have been asked to stay at home as much as possible. Although this is essential to enable us to tackle the virus, being asked to stay at home can cause anxiety for those who are experiencing or feel at risk of domestic abuse. There is never an excuse for domestic abuse, no matter what the circumstances, and we want to ensure that any member of staff feeling at risk during this time knows where they can turn for support.
Domestic abuse is not always physical violence. It can also include, but is not limited to, coercive control and ‘gaslighting’, economic abuse, online abuse, verbal abuse, emotional abuse and sexual abuse.
If you feel at risk, or are worried about somebody else who may be at risk, it is important to remember that the police and support services are still available to help and direct you to sources of support during this challenging time. If you believe you are being abused, or worried you may commit domestic abuse, remember you are not alone and you don’t have to suffer in silence. Please use the information and links below to find support.
Please call 999 and ask for the police. If speaking would put you or somebody else in danger, you can make a silent call– use the Silent Solution system and call 999 and then press 55 when prompted. Please call 999 and ask for the police. If speaking would put you or somebody else in danger, you can make a silent call– use the Silent Solution system and call 999 and then press 55 when prompted.