Home is not always a safe place

Help is on hand during lockdown for victims of domestic abuse, a leading politician said today.

Help is on hand during lockdown for victims of domestic abuse, a leading politician said today.

Nationally domestic abuse charities have reported a 25% increase in the number of requests for help since the Government’s stay indoors restrictions came into force last month.

Clare Penny-Evans, Cabinet Member for Communities on Newcastle City Council and Chair of Safe Newcastle, has lead responsibility for tackling domestic violence.

She said: “Home is not always a safe place. I want victims who may be stuck in doors to know there are still services out there that can help them.

“People who perpetrate domestic abuse whether that be physical, financial, emotional or sexual are making a choice. They will be severely dealt with and may even be removed from their homes by the police.

“Nationally charities are receiving fewer calls but more requests for help online which may suggest that victims are crying out for help but in silence. We expect that once the lockdown is lifted and people can leave their homes, we’ll get a lot of calls.

“But it’s important that victims know they do not need to suffer in silence during the lockdown. There are still many services out there offering help and if victims fear for their lives they should ring 999 immediately.

“There is even a helpline for people who may be worried about their own behaviour. The Respect helpline is 0808 802 4040 and aimed at perpetrators, both male and female, who may be seeking help.”

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This lock down has really exposed another group who are suffering and that's victims of domestic abuse.

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Practitioners fear that perpetrators use social distancing and isolation to further isolate their victims which places greater stress on families. They can escalate their abusive behaviour and children who are also isolated in the home are exposed to it. The distancing and isolation guidelines also reduce opportunities for victims and their children to safely and confidentially seek support.

Cllr Penny-Evans added: “It’s similar to the rise in domestic violence that occurs over the Christmas holiday period. Victims try to placate the perpetrator to get the family through the holidays and then seek support in January when things get back to normal.

“It’s likely we will see a similar spike after restrictions are eased and it will also then be easier for people reach out to services for support.”

Police and Crime Commissioner for Northumbria Kim McGuinness has pledged more funding to tackle domestic violence.

People experiencing domestic abuse can get information by visiting the Safe Newcastle web page https://www.safenewcastle.org.uk/violence-against-women-and-girls

To report an incident ring 101 or visit the Northumbria Police website. In a non-emergency situation you can text the police on 07786 200814

In an emergency, always call 999. If you dial 999 and are unable to speak, the emergency operator will ask you to dial 55 and to follow their instruction to quickly put you in touch with police.

As well as the police, there are a number of specialist organisations which provide support.

The National Domestic Abuse Helpline offers a free helpline – 0808 2000 247 – that can provide victims/survivors with emotional support and advice on their options and signpost to local services.

Where it isn’t safe to telephone, Women’s Aid has an instant messaging service (Monday–Friday, 10am–12pm) which can be accessed via https://chat.womensaid.org.uk/

For more information about domestic abuse advice search Northumbria Police online, where there is also guidance on deleting your internet history.

Home is not always a safe place. I want victims who may be stuck in doors to know there are still services out there that can help them.