Domestic Abuse: Get help during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak

The lock-down policies implemented by the government have brought on increased measures of domestic abuse occurring in households in the UK. Domestic abuse can apply to all genders, and may not always be in the form of physical violence. Examples of other forms can include; threats, online abuse, and economic abuse.

Studies show that domestic violence rates rise when families spend more time together, and the lock-down has taken this to another degree due to confinement in a space for a prolonged duration.

Various domestic abuse statistics have been collected, providing insight into the situation during the first lock-down in March. Calls to the National Domestic Abuse Helpline were occurring at an increased rate of 49% in comparison to the three weeks prior to the lock-down.

Multiple steps have been taken by charities and campaigns to support women throughout this time, concerning how to get away from domestic violence, how to get someone away from domestic violence, and how to get help for domestic violence victims. The charity; Safelives, curated a survey concerning survivors of domestic abuse. Findings from this survey stated that the women were unable to access contact for support due to either their perpetrator being with them at all times in the space of their home, or they lacked access to a form of communication.

“You are not alone,” was introduced by the UK Government's Domestic Abuse campaign. The name speaks for itself, as the campaign serves the purpose of a platform supporting women, aiming for victims to feel less isolated during this time, and a tool to access various vital resources. The campaign has been shared across multiple platforms, providing an increased spread of awareness, including a Twitter hashtag;

#YouAreNotAlone

Their website provides access to resources including; online support, the police, helplines, and refugees. The campaign also aims to educate the public, providing a recognition of abuse and signs to look for. Concerning this, examples of signs the UK Government’s website suggests to look for include; “having your internet or social media use monitored, having bruises, burns, or bite marks, being told that abuse is your fault, having finances controlled.”

If you find yourself in a situation of immediate danger concerning domestic violence, call 999. The police are capable of providing you with the protection and support required. The UK Government’s website supports those in danger, with the inability to talk on the phone, stating; “listen to the questions from the operator and, if you can, respond by coughing or tapping on the handset.” If you suspect or know someone in danger, the website provides a list of organisations along with their hotlines to call on an individual's behalf, and immediate measures will be taken from there by professionals.