Domestic abuse: how to get help
Measures announced over recent weeks to tackle coronavirus (COVID-19) have drastically altered people’s day-to-day lives. While it is essential that the vast majority of people stay home to protect the NHS and save lives, the government acknowledges that the order to stay at home can cause anxiety for those who are experiencing or feel at risk of domestic abuse. Therefore, if you are experiencing domestic abuse, you can leave your home to seek help, and police and support services remain available.
Domestic abuse is unacceptable in any situation, no matter what stresses people are under. There is no excuse for abuse.
Domestic abuse is not always physical violence. It can also include:
• coercive control and ‘gaslighting’
• economic abuse
• online abuse
• verbal abuse
• emotional abuse
• sexual abuse
Guy Ferguson, CEO of Police Crime Prevention Initiatives, said: “We fully support the Home Office with this initiative, as we are aware that staying at home in accordance with the coronavirus (COVID-19) advice can cause anxiety for anyone experiencing or feeling at risk of domestic abuse.
“There is absolutely no excuse for abuse and if you are worried or suspect that anyone you know, including a colleague, may be a victim of domestic abuse, you can find out how to get help at www.gov.uk/domestic-abuse”.
Many of the organisations that provide support to victims of domestic abuse are also willing to support and advise colleagues, managers and friends if they suspect someone they know is experiencing domestic abuse. There is also support available if you are worried about the impact of your own behaviour on others.
More information on coronavirus and domestic abuse can be found here: www.gov.uk/domestic-abuse