Finding unique ways to reach out to victims of domestic abuse as lockdown measures eased

More than 100 pharmacies across Sussex are now handing out shopping bags with domestic abuse support branding.

This is just one way authorities are trying to reach out to victims who may be too scared or unable to seek help at present.

Duncan Crow, West Sussex County Council cabinet member for fire and rescue and communities, said: “Even though the rules for lockdown are easing off ever so slightly, one of our top priorities is still making sure those people living in an abusive environment get the help they need as quickly as possible.

“It is not always easy to ask for help but we’re hoping that the pharmacy bags will remind domestic abuse victims that they are not alone, and support is only a phone call away.”

The bags are branded with the messaging ‘at home shouldn’t mean at risk of domestic abuse’, making it clear that household isolation rules do not apply in potentially lifethreatening situations.

Local support services have expressed their concerns about victims of crime not feeling able to safely reach out for help whilst stuck in isolation, especially when living with their abuser.

Kay Birch from Victim Support Sussex said: “It’s really important that we use every opportunity we have to let Sussex residents know that domestic abuse support services across the county are open and ready to help, regardless of whether an incident is reported to the police. Pharmacies are an invaluable community resource and using pre-printed bags provides a low risk way of ensuring more people know they can pick up the phone or go online if they need independent information, advice and support.”

In 2016, Sussex police and crime commissioner Katy Bourne launched ‘Safe Space Sussex’, the first online directory of local victim services. In response to the lockdown and these concerns,

Mrs Bourne has upgraded this site, equipping it with a new search tool so that victims of any crime can find the service they need in seconds. The website address – www. safespacesussex.org.uk – is also featured on the pharmacy bags so people know there are an abundance of local services still offering help and support.

Mrs Bourne said: “Just because we are seeing a decrease in reports does not mean that crimes, like domestic abuse, are reducing. So, it’s now more important than ever, that people who feel threatened and vulnerable have someone they can reach out to, who will listen and help them. We may be in lockdown, but they must not feel locked out.”

Anyone who is a victim of domestic abuse, or knows someone who is, should call 999 if there is an ongoing emergency or if life is in danger. If people cannot talk because the perpetrator is nearby, they should press the numbers ‘55’ when asked, which will alert the operator that help is needed.