There is never an excuse for domestic abuse, no matter what the circumstances are.
Cumbria Safeguarding Adults Board is working together with its partners to signpost to information and support available both locally and nationally for victims of domestic abuse during covid-19 and the period of lockdown.
For anyone who feels they are at risk of abuse, there is help and support available, including police response, online support, helplines, refuges and other services. If you or someone you know is suffering from domestic abuse, isolation rules do not apply.
GOV UK has issued guidance for anyone suffering from domestic abuse with free and confidential advice available 24 hours-a-day on a dedicated helpline 0808 2000 247.
To speak to someone regarding domestic abuse or make a report call 101, or use the online reporting form here. Always call 999 in an emergency.
Cumbria Police and partner agencies – including Health, NSPCC, Victim Support and Adult Social Care – have launched a domestic abuse question and answer session on Facebook. This includes the option to send a private message to remain anonymous, or to post a question on the Cumbria Police Facebook Wall.
Visit the Cumbria Police dedicated webpage https://www.cumbria.police.uk/Advice-Centre/Personal-Safety/Domestic-Abuse.aspx for more information.
Silent Solution 55
This initiative allows people to call 999 when they are in danger and cannot speak. The operator will ask what emergency service you need. If there is no answer, the operator will then ask you to cough, or make another audible sign that you’re in need of police assistance.
If you’re in too much danger to make any sound at all, the call will be put through to an automated system which asks the caller to press 55 if they’re in danger. If 55 isn’t dialled, the police will not be dispatched.
Bright Sky app
This enables people experiencing domestic abuse to record an online journal with no trace of the evidence appearing on their phones. Bright Sky also provides specialist support and advice for people experiencing domestic abuse.
Victim Support
Victim support has developed advice for anyone currently experiencing domestic abuse and coercive control who may feel even more isolated and frightened than usual while families are ocial distancing or having to self-isolate. This includes information on how to stay safe and safety planning in the event they are in immediate danger.
