Domestic violence victims in danger due to restrictions
THERE has been increased calls to Adapt Women’s Refuge Help-line during the Covid-19 lock-down and the women’s refuge is bracing itself for a surge in women seeking help after the restrictions are lifted. Many women who are now in danger living with perpetrators of domestic violence are unable to leave at this point in time but are seeking support by phone where they can.
“Our greatest concern is that women may be finding it much more difficult to make contact for support. Previously women may have contacted services when they or their partners were at work or out of the house, or when children were in school. Those little windows of freedom are being cut down.” “Many women are reaching out to us and we want you to know that you are not alone at this difficult time,” said Manager, Catherine Casey.
While for many the Covid-19 lock-down is an opportunity to spend time at home with loved ones, for those living in the shadow of domestic violence the fears and threat to life has never been greater.
“The isolation that the current restrictions brings compounds domestic violence. Such restrictions collude with perpetrators,” says Catherine.
Currently units at the centre are occupied but there is space for admissions and the message that women and the public need to know is Adapt is open and can offer support.
“We are open and here,” said Catherine.
“We are accepting admissions and we are here to help in any way we can.”
Adapt’s Helpline has been extended for the duration of the Covid-19 to a 24/7 support line and it has been busy, says Catherine. She welcomes the news that their support line is now around the clock as it can be difficult for victims to make contact.
Prior to this calls were only answered until midnight and she is hopeful that this support can be extended beyond the pandemic.
She says that respite is also offered at the refuge not just support for those intending the leave forever. Sometimes space is required for a few days and that is available.
A major campaign across TV, radio and social media aimed at reaching out to victims of domestic abuse has been launched.
The campaign - a collaboration between the Government and front-line services - will see adverts across those platforms to reflect the reality of domestic violence in the current climate.
Catherine says that this campaign has come at a critical time for women and children who may be confined and isolated with their abuser in towns and townlands across the county of Kerry.
She said the message is clear - the front-line services are here to support you and very importantly the 2km rule does not apply to domestic violence victims seeking safety
Catherine also said that in these stressful circumstances that it was more important than ever that there was a strong community response to domestic violence.
“During Covid-19 we are being reminded that we are all in this together. The response to domestic violence can be no different. We are asking people to be vigilant, to keep in touch with friends and family, to be aware that homes may not be safe and to be her voice in looking for support at a time when she may not be able to use hers.”
She said that this community support should also be recalled when out shopping or in public. Social media complaints have ranked up about people taking children out shopping but she said there may be many valid reasons for this not least parenting alone or fearful of leaving your children at home.
“You don’t know people’s circumstance and people should have tolerance now. Every situation is different.
Catherine says there are many difficulties facing families forced to live in the refuge during this crisis not least social distancing for those who most need face-to-face support given the trauma they have experienced. It is also more difficult to move families or individuals not of the refuge at this time as securing accommodation and supports is more difficult.
Adapt is also busy offering support to the families who have passed through their doors- many of them now single parents, who need support with children, matenance and others such issues.
The key message, however, is that support is there for all victims of domestic violence and that legal support is still available. Court sittings are taking place and those living in fear can seek safety orders and barring orders from the court if necessasry.
Adapt will also be on hand when the lock-down is over to help support those who have suffered during abuse or violence during lockdown.
“The isolation that Covid-19 brings compounds domestic violence in homes.”