Law Articles

Domestic Abuse during Covid-19 Lockdown – Part 2 20/05/2020

We recently wrote an article about domestic abuse during the Covid-19 lockdown, how there has been an increase in the number of incidents and what help can be sought. The domestic abuse charity, Hestia, has reported a 47% increase in victims reaching out for support using their free App called "Bright Sky". The national statistics show that 1 in 4 women and 1 in 6 men are victims of domestic violence. Charities are concerned that the figures will become much higher during the lockdown period.

Boots Pharmacies

From 1 May 2020, Boots Pharmacies are offering their consultation rooms as safe places for victims of domestic abuse to use to contact specialist domestic abuse services for help and support. There are 2,400 Boots Pharmacies in communities over the UK and most will offer this service. Whilst in the consultation room, you will have access to the following services:

• 24-hour National domestic abuse helpline: 0808 2000 247
• Men's advice line: 0808 801 032
• Scotland - Domestic Abuse & Forced Marriage Helpline (freephone 24/7): 0800 027 123
• Wales - Live Fear Free Helpline (freephone 24/7): 0808 801 0800
• Northern Ireland - Domestic & Sexual Abuse: 0808 802 141
• Signposting to download the free mobile app, Bright Sky, which provides support and information to anyone who may be in an abusive relationship or those concerned about someone they know

Rail to Refuge

When victims flee domestic abuse they often do so with few belongings and little cash or access to funds. Victims of domestic abuse across the South of England, West Midlands and South Wales can now benefit from the "Rail to Refuge" initiative. The initiative is being run by the South Eastern and Great Western Railway. Victims of abuse can contact the charity, Women's Aid, a domestic abuse helpline or a local outreach service and, where necessary, a refuge will be located and a train ticket will be obtained for them to reach the refuge.

Women's Aid Live Chat service is open Monday to Friday 10am to 4pm and 10am to 12pm on Saturday and Sunday.

For further information and advice on this issue, and other family law issues, please contact us for a free initial consultation on 01992 306 616 or 0207 956 2740 or email us.