Domestic abuse during the coronavirus outbreak

Anyone can be a victim of domestic abuse, regardless of gender, age, ethnicity, sexuality or background.

There are different kinds of abuse that can happen in different situations. Domestic abuse can commonly occur within intimate relationships in the household.

There has been an increase in domestic abuse during the pandemic.

Domestic abuse isn’t always physical – it’s a pattern of controlling, threatening and coercive behaviour, that can also be emotional, economic, psychological or sexual.

The pandemic is a difficult and worrying time for everyone – but particularly so for adults and children living with domestic abuse.

As always, if you or someone else is in immediate danger please call 999 and ask for the police.

Below are a number of support services available to sufferer’s of domestic abuse during this time:

Women’s Aid

Women’s Aid have provided additional safety advice for survivors of domestic abuse who may be feeling unsafe if they are isolated in the house with the perpetrator.

Save Lives

Save Lives have launched a dedicated domestic abuse and COVID-19 area on their website filled with resources and support services for victims of domestic abuse.

Refuge

Refuge have provided lots of information for domestic abuse victims during the coronavirus outbreak, including safety tips for survivors.

The 24 hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline, run by Refuge, is also available during this time on 0808 2000 247 or you can visit the National Domestic Abuse Helpline website.

ManKind

ManKind run a confidential helpline available for male victims of domestic abuse across the UK, as well as their friends, family, neighbours, work colleagues and employers.

GOV.UK

The Home Office also provides lots of information and links to support services for the victims of domestic abuse at this time.