Domestic abuse calls up 25% since lockdown
The freephone, 24-hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline 0808 2000 247 Domestic abuse calls up 25% and at least 16 suspected domestic abuse killings identified since the Covid-19 lock-down restrictions were imposed As we prepare for a further period of lock-down, women in violent relationships are faced with being stuck at home and exposed to their abuser for even longer periods of time and making it very difficult for them to call helplines. Campaigners have warned the restrictions could heighten domestic tensions and cut off escape routes such as the school run. BBC news 6 April 2020 reported that the charity Refuge had said the National Domestic Abuse Helpline which runs 24/7 has seen a 25% increase in calls and online requests for help since the lock-down. Both globally and in some EU countries, it has been reported that cases of domestic violence rose by a third in the week after lock-down was put in place. Added to these statistics the Guardian is reporting that at least 16 suspected domestic abus
