Abuse fear for victims

DOMESTIC violence is expected to soar while the Gold Coast works under tight social restrictions – and service operators are struggling to provide vital support.

Advocates warn the coronavirus has caused the perfect storm for the violent – financial struggles, boredom, being unable to leave, stress and availability of alcohol.

Gold Coast Centre Against Sexual Violence director Di MacLeod said the isolation of a lockdown would be the hardest for victims of domestic violence.

“Really, it is like a hostage situation,” she said.

Ms MacLeod said victims would be trapped with their abuser with none of their usual escapes, including going to work and visiting friends and family.

The centre provides counselling for all victims of sexual violence and often to women who are forced into sex by their abuser.

Due to social distancing regulations the centre has been trying to conduct appointments by phone.

“We have had women who had pre-booked appointments say they can’t talk and that is because their abuser is there with them,” she said

Ms MacLeod said as the tight restrictions continued the challenges of providing support would only increase.

A lot is not known about what will happen during the lockdown but Ms MacLeod said it was common after a natural disaster for calls help to jump remarkably.

“What is going to happen when this is all over and people don’t turn up to work?” she said.

“What is going to happen with all those people needing an influx of services?”

RizeUp CEO Nicolle Edwards said she was concerned about what would happen at the end of the crisis.

“Demand for our services was already outstripping what we could deliver before COVID-19,” Ms Edwards explained.

“My fear now is that at a time when businesses are tightening their belts and volunteers are unable to support in the numbers they usually do we are going to have fewer resources to face what will be an even greater problem than before.”

A Department of Child Safety, Youth and Women spokeswoman said the safety of women and children would be a “critical focus” as the COVID-19 situation developed.

“The department is actively working with domestic and family violence service providers, women’s shelters and peak bodies to ensure that service delivery is able to continue, and that women and children continue to be able to access the support they need during the current public health crisis,” she said.

She said the department was constantly in contact with providers offering support and plans for if clients or staff were exposed to of diagnosed with COVID-19. for