Domestic violence victims reminded that support is out there

and choices and offer confidential advice and support.

“There’sneverbeenamore criticaltimeforustoalltopull together and look after oneanother.

“We call on all our community ambassadors, supporters, and previous service users to spread the word and make that ‘stay safe’ call."

Coun Michael Mordey, chair of the Safer Sunderland Partnership and deputy leaderofSunderlandCityCouncil, added: "We know that home isn’t a safe place for everyone. We also recognise that during these restrictions being isolated with an abuser must be terrifying,sowewanttosenda very clear message to you that you're not alone and there is help and support available."

Northumbria Police’s Detective Superintendent DeborahAlderson,ofthesafeguardingdepartment,said:“If your home is not a safe environment then we urge you to seek support, to contact police.

“We will do everything we can do to support you which can include finding safe accommodation for you and your children or removing abusers from homes."

The council is urging anyone needing help to contact:

• Wearside Women in Need’s 24/7 helpline on 0800 066 5555;

• The National Domestic

Abuse Helpline on 0808 200 247;

• The Police on 999 if you are in immediate danger. Silent calls will work if you are not safe to speak by dialling 999 and press 5 5;

• The Police on 101 if you need help and support;

• The Women’s Aid’s Live Chat via www.chat.womensaid.org.uk;

• The Respect helpline 0808 802 4040 if you are worried about your own behaviour;

• The Men’s Advice Line - a confidentialhelplineformale victimsofdomesticabuseand those supporting them, 0808 8010327 www.mensadviceline.org.uk