Public can lead the fight against domestic abuse
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CRIMESTOPPERS Scotland is launching a new campaign to encourage people to report suspected cases of domestic abuse during the Covid-19 lockdown.
The independent charity wants those aware of friends, family, work colleagues or neighbours who may be suffering from the scourge to get in touch.
Countries like China and Italy, deeper into social distancing measures than the UK, have reported a rise in domestic abuse incidents during the pandemic.
As the Inverness Courier reported this week, Inverness Women’s Aid is currently witnessing a reduction in contacts but is braced for a potential increase as the crisis continues.
Domestic Abuse can be physical, psychological, emotional, sexual or financial.
Often neighbours, family and friends may be suspicious, but are reluctant to get involved because of embarrassment, split loyalties or fear of revenge.
In 2017/18 there were 59,541 incidents of domestic abuse recorded by Police Scotland. Women made up 82 per cent of the victims.
Crimestoppers’ service deals with referrals completely anonymously.
Crimestoppers Scotland’s national manager Angela Parker said: “With the Covid-19 pandemic forcing people to stay in their homes, our fear is that rates of domestic violence will rise.
“This is a serious crime that leaves victims feeling trapped, alone and powerless. They are often too scared or vulnerable to seek help or speak out.
“To be isolated during this lockdown in an abusive household must be terrifying, and you must feel so alone, that there is no one to help you.
“This is where we, as a community, can step forward. Often in cases of Domestic Abuse, the community knows something, but struggles to know what to do to help.
“You can contact us here at Crimestoppers, we will take your information and pass it on, and no one will ever know you called.”
The charity’s UK contact centre is open 24 hours a day on freephone 0800 555 111. Its website, crimestoppers-uk.org, also offers a simple and secure anonymous online form.
Scottish Minister for Older People and Equalities Christina McKelvie said: “During this time we have all been asked to stay at home, protect the NHS and save lives.
“And so home has become somewhere where we are seeking safety, reassurance and comfort.
“But unfortunately for many people home is not a safe haven. It is a place of threat and harm both physical and mental.
“Those suffering domestic abuse, including coercive and controlling behaviours, can feel isolated and vulnerable, unheard and unseen.
“This is why we ask that people come together with the community spirit that we have seen during this difficult time to help our neighbours, family and friends whose lives may be impacted by this violence and abuse.
“Every day, over a thousand people trust Crimestoppers with their anonymous information.
“Together, we can help stop domestic abuse and prevent more people from experiencing potential violent or lethal harm in the home.
“You could save victims from abuse, children from living in fear, you could save lives.”
