Words by Smiley Team
Since the start of lockdown, Refuge, the UK’s largest single provider of specialist domestic abuse services, and sole provider of the National Domestic Abuse Helpline, has seen a spike in demand for its services.
The spike in demand for the Helpline shows the extent of support required during lockdown. The window for women experiencing domestic abuse to reach out for help is ordinarily very limited – with this window narrowing further when isolating with an abusive partner. This spike in demand points to the sheer number of women affected, and why the confidential, specialist support that Refuge provides is needed more than ever.
During the initial stages of the Covid-19 crisis, Refuge reported around 50% increase in demand to its Helpline, and a 300%+ increase in visits to its National Domestic Abuse Helpline website. This demand has since spiked significantly once again with a weekly average increase of 66% and visits to the website (where women can request a safe time to be contacted) have seen a phenomenal 950% rise compared to pre Covid-19.
Prior to lockdown, on any given day Refuge supported more than 6,000 clients helping them rebuild their lives after experiencing violence and abuse including domestic violence, sexual violence, so-called ‘honour’-based violence, human trafficking and modern slavery, and female genital mutilation.
Sandra Horley, CBE, Chief Executive of Refuge said ‘While lockdown itself does not cause domestic abuse, it can aggravate pre-existing behaviours in abusive partners. Women up and down the country are isolated with abusive partners – and children will be witnessing and in some cases experiencing domestic abuse. This is a terrifying ordeal and Refuge wants women to know they are not alone.’
‘Right now women’s lives depend on them being able to access the specialist services Refuge provides, and now, more than ever, we must continue to provide the confidential support needed. Women are not alone, Refuge is there and support is available.”
Donations to Refuge can be made at their website, where you can also find out more about their services and access support.
By Ellen Jones
