‘Domestic abuse could escalate in lockdown’
THE coronavirus lockdown is leaving vulnerable women and children at risk of domestic abuse, it has been claimed.
Charities and police forces have expressed concern that the new measures will give abusers the opportunity to escalate their behaviour without being seen.
According to charity Llamau, this could lead to an increase in physically and sexually abusive incidents, as perpetrators will be less concerned about causing visible injuries and their behaviour being challenged.
Social isolation also limits the contact the victim may have with specialist, life-saving services, as there is less opportunity for them to safely access support behind closed doors while they are locked in with their abuser.
Nic Fitzpatrick, Llamau’s head of domestic abuse and gender-specific services, said: “We’re very concerned that during this time more and more women will be subjected to higher levels of domestic abuse than normal. Many women tell us their only release from abuse is when they leave the house for work or to walk to the shops, but during this period of self-isolation these little windows of opportunity are closed.
“Being confined to each other’s company will further exacerbate an abuser’s behaviour, putting both women and children at risk. With schools closing and social distancing being enforced, those safe spaces are becoming less and less.”
This assessment is supported by Welsh Women’s Aid and police data, which suggests that reports of domestic violence have actually fallen.
A Welsh Women’s Aid spokeswoman said: “It is likely that, given the claustrophobic and unsafe nature of being on an increasingly strict ‘lockdown’ with a perpetrator, accessing a space to make the call to the helpline will not often be safe or even possible.”
With this in mind, many women are being advised to access the Live Fear Free helpline via text on 0780 077 333 or through the webchat function on the website www. livefearfree.org.uk.
The fall in reports of domestic violence has been noted across Wales.
Gwent Police said it had seen a significant fall in the number of calls received from victims of domestic abuse in March compared with January and February. Chief Constable Pam Kelly said the figures suggest individuals are “suffering in silence”.
Last year Dyfed-Powys Police received on average about 180 domestic incidents recorded. Over the last week ending March 29, 2020, 110 incidents were recorded – a reduction of 39%.
Detective Superintendent Anthony Griffiths, of the force, said: “We know this is a time of worry for all of us, but this may be heightened for those who have suffered or are suffering domestic abuse in any of its forms.
“If you’re already living with domestic abuse, the restrictions put in place while the Government tries to slow the spread of the virus may have left you feeling fearful of being isolated at home with your abuser.
“It may also leave you feeling less able to access help and support. You may not be able to see the friends and family who usually support you, and some of the places where you go for help or treatment may be closed or offering a reduced service.
“You may also be concerned that your reporting mechanisms are now limited. I want to offer you some reassurance. I want you to know we are here for you and will remain here for you throughout. We have the resources to support you and we will respond to your report swiftly.”
Agencies are calling on women who are in immediate danger to leave the house despite the restrictions and, if possible, to call 999.
Jane Hutt, the Welsh Government’s Deputy Minister and Chief Whip, said: “I’m very concerned isolation and social distancing can make it easier for perpetrators to inflict coercive control or violence on their victims. I know compulsory self-isolation in domestically abusive households can increase incidents of physical and sexual violence.
“I’m also aware that many victims are finding it difficult to seek help because they fear being overheard by abusive partners or they may be unable to leave the home.”
She added it was not just women who were able to access support.
“I want to reassure you that specialist domestic abuse services are ready to help you,” she said. “We are here to help. If you are suffering domestic abuse or violence, contact the Live Fear Free helpline straightaway. If you are a male victim or survivor, the Dyn helpline offers the same level of support.
“Stay safe and seek help by whatever means you can – we will be listening.”