Ghani Welcomes Increased Support for Domestic Violence Victims

PC

Nus Ghani has welcomed the launch of a new national campaign to reach out to those at risk of abuse during this pandemic, as we stay at home to protect the NHS. 
 
While the stay at home guidelines are helping to keep the majority of us safe, they can leave some people more vulnerable to domestic abuse, and there has been a concerning increase in people seeking help with domestic violence. 
 
The Government has launched a £2 million campaign to support victims with enhanced support services and remind victims and their families that support is available.  
 
Following the announcement, Nusrat Ghani said:

“It takes a huge amount of courage for victims of domestic abuse to come forward and I hope that the campaign #YouAreNotAlone will reassure victims that they are not alone and that they should contact the police if they are in danger. I have had domestic violence victims reach out to me as their MP and it’s important to know if you are facing domestic abuse whilst in lock-down, that you can leave home to seek help, and if you are at risk of harm, then call the police on 999. If you find yourself in a situation where you cannot talk, after calling 999, press 55. This way the emergency team can help you without you having to talk."
 
In Sussex, domestic violence victims and survivors can also get in touch with The Portal, a partnership of leading domestic and sexual abuse and violence charities, who help people find the right support, as well as offering advice and help to families and friends.  Please see www.theportal.org.uk for further information or they can be contacted via [email protected] or 0300 323 9985. 
 
You can also use the following contacts to report, deal with, and get advice regarding domestic violence:
 

  • Age UK Advice Line (8am –7pm 7 days a week) 0800 678 1174
  • Your GP or other NHS health providers
  • Hourglass helpline: 0808 808 8141
  • 24hr free National Domestic Violence Helpline 0808 2000 247
  • 24hr Aanchal helpline 0845 4512 547 – If English isn’t your first language
  • Mankind Helpline 01823 334244 – for men
  • Paladin NSAS (Paladin-National Stalking Advocacy Service) 0207 840 8960
  • Broken Rainbow Helpline 0300 999 5428 LGBT helpline

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Domestic Abuse during Covid-19

Older constituents, people who have underlying health conditions, or are considered vulnerable, are being asked to stay inside for the foreseeable future. For some people being at home, with limited contact with the outside world, can increase their risk of experiencing abuse or neglect.

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