The National Domestic Abuse helpline has reported a 25% increase in calls since the coronavirus lockdown began, as well as a 150% increase in visits to their website.
Domestic abuse is always a workplace issue. Trade unions know that work is often a place of safety for women experiencing domestic abuse.
But at the moment, many workers are subject to stringent social distancing measures which mean they have to work from home, isolated from their support networks.
For those at risk of domestic abuse, this may be unsafe.
But because their most frequent contact is likely to be with their line manager, co-workers and trade unions reps, now more than ever we all have a role to play in supporting those at risk of domestic abuse.
You can spot signs, provide support and help stop further abuse.
1. Spot abuse: If you think someone’s behaviour is unusual, it is better to ask than to assume. Consider the use of closed questions (questions to which they can answer “yes” or “no”) in case someone else may be listening.
2. Remember: domestic abuse isn’t always physical. It’s a pattern of controlling and intimidating behaviour that can be emotional, economic, psychological or sexual. It can happen in same-sex and heterosexual relationships.
3. Support: The most important thing you can do is listen and believe. Keep in touch. This could be through regular video or phone calls, or if it is safer via emails or text messages. Be careful and sensitive. Keep checking in with them, even if they don’t want to seek help yet.
4. Stop abuse: Encourage them to call the National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 2000 247. The helpline will put them in touch with local services who can help them make a plan to get safe. People experiencing domestic abuse are allowed to leave their home to seek help during lockdown. If serious domestic abuse is disclosed, you should encourage them to call 101, or 999 if the situation is critical.
5. Ending domestic abuse: If you know or suspect someone is at risk of perpetrating domestic abuse, you should encourage them to stop. Respect phoneline helps perpetrators of violence and abuse to end their behaviour. Their message is: “When the world is unsafe, do not make home unsafe. Get help to manage your behaviour.”
These are extraordinary times. The isolation measures in response to COVID-19 mean many more people are working from home. We're asking employers and reps to take practical action to help protect and support people they know or fear are experiencing domestic abuse.
You can't replace specialist services, but this guide will help you develop the awareness and skills to give the best support and advice you can to someone who may be in danger.
We need the government to implement an urgent strategy to protect women and their families and to prevent abuse during COVID-19.
The TUC join our sisters in the VAWG sector in calling for:
National Domestic Abuse Helpline
The National Domestic Abuse Helpline website provides guidance and support for potential victims, as well as those who are worried about friends and loved ones. They can also be called, for free and in confidence, 24 hours a day on 0808 2000 247. The website also has a form through which women can book a safe time for a call from the team.
Refuge
Free 24 hour helpline: 0808 80 10 800
End Violence Against Women Coalition
Briefing on COVID-19 from specialist support services
Men’s Advice Line
The Men’s Advice Line is a confidential helpline for male victims of domestic abuse and those supporting them. It can be contacted on 0808 801 0327.
Galop - for members of the LGBT+ community
If you are a member of the LGBT+ community, Galop runs a specialist helpline on 0800 999 5428 or email help@galop.org.uk.
Economic abuse
If you are concerned about how coronavirus may affect your finances and leave you vulnerable to economic abuse, please see the advice provided by HM Treasury on what support is on offer. The charity Surviving Economic Abuse has also provided additional guidance and support.
Rights of Women
National family law legal helpline: 020 7251 6577 or www.rightsofwomen.org.uk/get-information/family-law
Hestia
Hestia provides a free-to-download mobile app, Bright Sky, which provides support and information to anyone who may be in an abusive relationship or those concerned about someone they know.
Chayn
Chayn provides online help and resources in a number of languages, ranging from identifying manipulative situations and how friends can support those being abused.
Support for professionals
SafeLives is providing guida
nce and support to professionals and those working in the domestic abuse sector, as well as additional advice for those at risk.
Support if you are worried about hurting someone
If you are worried about hurting the ones you love while staying at home, call the Respect Phoneline for support and help to manage your behaviour, 0808 8024040.
Domestic violence and the workplace
Our report on the impact domestic abuse has on women’s working lives
Unequal, trapped and controlled
TUC and Women’s Aid joint report on women’s experience of financial abuse.
Safe at home, safe at workETUC’s report on trade union strategies to prevent, manage and eliminate violence against women.
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