Domestic Abuse and Coronavirus
Domestic abuse is behaviour from a family member, partner or ex-partner that is controlling, coercive, threatening, violent or abusive. It can be psychological, physical, sexual, financial or emotional, and can happen to men or women.
North Tyneside Citizens Advice are concerned that the Coronavirus situation makes people particularly vulnerable to domestic abuse. The National Domestic Abuse helpline have seen a 25% increase in calls since the lockdown, and some charities are reporting even higher increases.
If you’re experiencing Domestic Abuse, we know it might be harder than normal to get away from your home or stay somewhere else, but there are still things you can do to stay safe:
- If you or someone else is in immediate danger, always call 999
- If you need to call 999 but are unable to speak, help is available here: https://www.policeconduct.gov.uk/sites/default/files/Documents/research-learning/Silent_solution_guide.pdf
- Call the North Tyneside Domestic Abuse service (Harbour) on 0191 251 3305 or contact them online through http://www.myharbour.org.uk/
- Call the 24-hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 200 0247 or online at https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk/Contact-us
- Speak to Women’s Aid through confidential online chat at http://chat.womensaid.org.uk/
- Perpetrators wanting help to stop committing violence can call Respect on 0808 802 4040
- Read further information about Domestic Abuse and COVID-19 at https://safelives.org.uk/news-views/domestic-abuse-and-covid-19 or https://www.womensaid.org.uk/covid-19-coronavirus-safety-advice-for-survivors/
If you have any further questions about any of the above, you can also speak to Citizens Advice on 0300 3309 047, or email us for a callback.
