Abuse in lockdown

THE coronavirus pandemic and subsequent lockdown has been an extremely stressful and frightening period for many people. As millions followed instructions to stay at home in a bid to halt the spread of the virus, unfortunately it meant that many were left trapped with their abusers, with no way to escape them.

Police forces across the country have reported a rise in domestic abuse cases since the pandemic outbreak in March.

The West Midlands Police and some domestic abuse charities in the region have said they need £3.6 million to cope with the surge in cases.

Alarmingly, campaigners have told Eastern Eye they expect to see an increase in forced marriage cases once families are able to travel overseas when restrictions are likely to be lifted sometime next year.

Both men and women can be affected by domestic violence and the abuse can impact individuals from all backgrounds. As perpetrators inflict serious harm on their victims, the abuse can have lasting impact on the person’s physical, mental and emotional wellbeing.

Ministers must ensure that there is adequate funding and support so those affected can access culturally sensitive services and information on a one-to-one and confidential basis, if they need it.

If not, one of the silent and most devastating impacts of the pandemic will be that vulnerable people who are caught up in abuse, with nowhere to seek refuge, will be badly let down.