16th April 2020
Definition of domestic abuse
Domestic abuse is defined across Government as any incident of controlling, coercive or threatening behaviour, violence or abuse between those aged 16 or over who are or have been intimate partners or family members, regardless of their gender or sexuality.
KEY MESSAGES
· Domestic abuse services are still in operation
· Police response is business as usual
· Businesses can support employees who are experiencing domestic abuse by referring them to appropriate services and maintaining contact
· Victims are not alone and help is available
The government have confirmed that people who are experiencing domestic abuse can leave home to seek help, including refuges, despite rules to stop coronavirus spreading.
People experiencing domestic abuse should if at immediate risk dial 999.
What Can Victims Do?
Victims of domestic abuse can take the following steps to safeguard themselves and others:
· Keep a mobile phone close and maintain virtual communications with trusted contacts. Develop a way of raising concerns if you do not contact them for periods of time- use coded messages or safe words, leave curtains or blinds open or use any other agreed method to allow them to raise the alarm if you can’t.
· If at risk, call 999. Use the Silent Solution system if fearful of being overheard or seen: call 999 then 55 to have the operator transfer the call to emergency services without having to speak.
· Conceal a bag packed with essentials including clothes, money, charger, ID documents/ passport ready to leave quickly, ensure you also have a bag ready for any children too.
· Have taxi numbers in contacts
· Identify someone who is a ‘safe space contact’ where you can go if there was anything to happen and/or be aware of where police, local services and refuges are.
· Identify areas of the house where there are no weapons and there are ways to escape if an argument occurs.
· Keep weapons such as knives locked away and as inaccessible as possible
· Do not wear scarves or long jewellery which can be used for strangulation
"You do not need to stay at home if you are suffering from #DomesticAbuse
There is help to support you. There is #NoExcuseForAbuse
Police and support services are still available – call 999 if you are in immediate danger.
Find out more: NoExcuseForAbuse.info
Twitter Tags: @CRASAC @coventry_haven @FWTCov @Kairos_WWT @CovPartnership
Facebook: @FWTCov @CoventryHaven @relatecoventrywarwickshire @CRASAC @Kairos.Coventry"
https://www.westmidlands-pcc.gov.uk/no-excuse-for-abuse/
Support if you are worried about hurting someone
If you are concerned that you or someone you know may be an abuser, there is support available. Respect is an anonymous and confidential helpline for men and women who are harming their partners and families. The helpline also takes calls from (ex)partners, friends and relatives who are concerned about perpetrators.
Telephone: 0808 802 4040
