DO not suffer domestic abuse under the coronavirus lockdown – that’s the message from agencies across south Warwickshire.
They say refuges across the county remain open, domestic violence cases are still being investigated by police and that no one should have to suffer violence or controlling behaviour.
There is also additional help and support available from the Warwickshire Domestic Abuse Support and Accommodation Service, operated by national charity Refuge and co-commissioned by Warwickshire County Council and Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Seccombe.
The dedicated helpline, 0800 408 1552, provides support and is able to signpost victims of abuse to relevant services, including shelters and rape crisis centres.
In addition, the National Domestic Abuse Helpline continues to operate 24 hours a day on 0808 2000 247.
Rachel Shuter, service manager for the commissioned refuge service in Warwickshire explains: “These are very challenging times for all of us but for those already living with domestic abuse, it can be especially frightening.
“Abuse needn’t just be physical, it can also take the form of psychological, emotional, financial and online harm and the current restrictions on movement could potentially aggravate situations further.
“This means those who experience domestic abuse may feel even more isolated than normal without their friends and or other family members to help support them, but I want to reassure them that they are not alone.
“We are continuing to operate our helpline on 0800 408 1552 as normal, providing confidential, non-judgmental support from our team of trained advisors.”
For further information visit www.refuge.org.uk or call the above number.
The Family Intervention Counselling Service provides a team of dedicated and qualified therapists, working in Warwickshire and the West Midlands with families who have or are experiencing domestic abuse. Visit www.interventionservice.co.uk or call 01926 429628.
The Domestic Abuse Counselling Service is continuing to provide telephone-based counselling services within Warwickshire and can be contacted at [email protected].
