For Those at Risk of Domestic Abuse, Police Offer Wide Range of Support Services

Published on: 16 Apr, 2020
Updated on: 16 Apr, 2020

Police in Surrey have released advice on possible domestic abuse, saying they understand the stay-at-home measures may increase pressure and can cause more anxiety for those at risk.

Victims may not be able to see friends and family for their usual support, and some places for help or treatment may be closed or offering reduced service. But for those who may be isolating, you are not isolated; support is still here for you.

Chief Constable Gavin Stephens has teamed up with Michelle Blunsom from ESDAS (East Surrey Domestic Abuse Service) to talk about support and services available. Click here to watch the five-minute video. Subtitles are available to watch silently.

Anyone can still call 999 or report online at www.surrey.police.uk if there is danger. Help and advice is available online and over the phone. If you are being abused, are concerned about family, friends or neighbours, or are worried you may commit domestic abuse, please seek help, either from the police or from support organisations.

Surrey Against Domestic Abuse on 01483 776822 www.healthysurrey.org.uk/domestic-abuse provides information on how to get help and keep yourself and your children safe.

Your Sanctuary on 01483 776822 www.yoursanctuary.org.uk is available 9am to 9pm seven days a week, offering support, information and signposting. An online chat service is available via their website. Your Sanctuary also runs two safe houses for women and children fleeing abuse, and a specialist male support service available to men across Surrey.

Men’s Advice Line on 0808 801 0327 www.mensadviceline.org.uk is confidential for male victims

Safe Lives at www.safelives.org.uk provides domestic abuse support and guidance during the Covid-19 pandemic.

National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 2000 247 www.refuge.org.uk gives guidance and support for potential victims, as well as those worried about friends and loved ones

National LGBT’s Domestic Abuse Helpline, 0800 999 5428 www.galop.org.uk/domesticabuse provides emotional and practical support for LGBT+ people.

RespectUK on 0808 802 4040 www.respect.uk.net gives advice and support for those who find managing their behaviour difficult and want to make a change.

Silent Solution: if you’re in an emergency situation and need police help but can’t speak, Make Yourself Heard and let the 999 operator know your call is genuine by pressing 55.

When transferred to your local police force, the call handler will attempt to communicate with you by asking simple yes or no questions. If you are not able to speak, listen carefully to the questions and instructions so the handler can assess your call and arrange help if needed.