Police urge victims to say NO MORE to abuse
Abuse victims during lockdown are being urged to come forward as restrictions begin to ease.
Detective Superintendent Lisa Laverick, domestic abuse lead for Northumbria Police, believes victims of abuse have felt unable to leave volatile relationships the past few months due to extended lockdown restrictions.
Now with restrictions being eased over the coming weeks and months, Det Supt Laverick wants to encourage victims to come forward who may have been suffering in silence throughout lockdown with their abuser.
It comes as part of NO MORE week campaign led by UK Says No More to raise awareness of domestic abuse and sexual violence.
She said: "We have still been absolutely committed to victims of domestic abuse throughout this pandemic however, we do know that some victims have felt that the lockdown restrictions have not only made it harder for them to leave an abusive relationship but it has also made it easier for abusers to control them.
"Whilst Covid, of course, does not cause domestic abuse – only abusers are responsible for their actions – the pandemic has affected access to support and impacted specialist organisations that are a vital lifeline to these victims.
"We need these victims to know that help and support is available and we want to encourage people to come forward and report domestic abuse."
The NO MORE week runs until Saturday.
Anyone who is suffering abuse is urged to contact police via the Northumbria Police website. Or contact the National Domestic Violence Helpline on 0808 2000 247.