Domestic abuse – you are not alone

Following the Government guidance and staying at home during the COVID-19 pandemic isn’t easy for anyone, but it is particularly difficult if you are living with an abuser.

The stay-at-home instruction does not apply if you need to leave home to escape domestic abuse.

These strange circumstances can increase the risk of harm. Survivors may be at home with their partner and unable to escape from the abuse. Abusive partners may have more free time and less barriers prohibiting them from abusing survivors, leading to them increasing the frequency or severity of their abuse.

If you are subject to domestic abuse, you are not alone, there is help available. For advice and support contact The Portal on 0300 323 9985.

If you are in immediate danger, or suspect someone else is, call 999.

If you are unable to talk, call 999, listen to the operator and then either press 55 on a mobile, when prompted, or wait on a landline to be connected to the police, who will be able to help.

You could also arrange a safe word system with a trusted neighbour, family member or friend. Agree on a word and/or emoji that you can text to them quickly in an emergency, so they know to call 999. Keep your phone topped up, charged and accessible.

For more information about the support available visit the Safe in East Sussex website.