Police reveal new alarm in domestic abuse fight

GREATER Manchester Police have revealed how victims of domestic abuse can ‘silently’ report it to them by pressing two numbers on their phone key pads during lockdown.

The force said coronavirus is an ‘extremely challenging situation for everyone. We are faced with a rapidly changing environment, with new challenges and different messages every single day.’

They said with families spending more time at home, there is ‘an increased risk of domestic abuse towards both children and adults.’

Support which has previously been in place has changed for many and is potentially inaccessible for some, the force said.

Domestic abuse remains one of the highest priorities for Greater Manchester Police and GMP said they ‘will continue to adapt our resources and approaches to ensure we are playing our part in protecting the vulnerable members of society.’

They urge people to maintain contact with friends or family via video calls and social media and to tell someone, or the police, if they feel at risk.

GMP said: “If you are in danger and unable to talk on the phone, call 999 and press 55 – this will transfer your call to the relevant police force, who will assist you without you having to speak.” The force said:

If you feel at risk, please contact us, tell someone you can trust or use the support available.

Always ensure your mobile phone is charged and with you. Agree a safety word or code with friends and family so they know if you call or text with this, they need to contact the police.

If there are children in the home, agree a safety word or code with them too so if there is a risk or threat, they know when to leave the home when

lllthis is used and also know where is a safe place to go if needed.

People who are deaf or hard of hearing can use the force’s text phone service on 18000.

lThe National Domestic Abuse Helpline is open 24-hours-a-day, seven-days-aweek on 0808 2000 247. A UK-charity, Save Lives, has a dedicated page on coronavirus-related advice.

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