DOMESTIC abuse victims can still seek help during coronavirus lockdown, Slough Borough Council (SBC) has urged.

National and Slough-based agency phonelines are still operating despite the crisis and can assist those who wanting to leave an abusive relationship and seek advice or wanting to talk about their current situation.

Even though the government has reiterated social distancing measures and called for people to stay at home if possible, SBC have emphasised that it shouldn’t stop men and women seeking help for domestic abuse.

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According to a charity refuge, the National Domestic Abuse Helpline, they have seen a 25 per cent increase in calls and online requests for help since the lockdown.

Domestic abuse takes many forms from physical and verbal abuse, stripping people of self-worth to controlling and coercive behaviour such as preventing partners from contacting family and friends, as well as restricting access to phones, money and food.

Rachel Axtell, domestic abuse partnership coordinator, said: “Coercive and controlling behaviour can be hard to identify and detect by the people living in those circumstances.

“With the lockdown, people are living more closely than ever before and these behaviours may reveal themselves.

“Partners should not withhold food or drink, determine what can be said, worn or who an individual can be friends with. Also, they should not stop a person from contacting their family or limit access to a phone.

“This virus does not stop people from getting help. In fact, the government has given special dispensation for those escaping controlling relationships.”

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Here’s a list of organisations you can contact:

  • Hestia Slough Domestic Service – 01753 477352.
  • Thames Valley based Victims First Hub – 0300 1234 148.
  • The National Domestic Abuse Helpline – 0808 2000 247.
  • Galop – 0800 999 5428 – for Lesbian Gay, Bisexual and Transgender people.
  • Karma Nirvana – 0800 5999 247 for help with so called honour based violence and forced marriage.
  • National Women’s Aid offer a number of ways to get help on their website org.uk.
  • If a resident feels in immediate danger, they should call Thames Valley Police on 999.
  • If you cannot speak, press 55 when prompted – this will transfer you to somebody without having to talk.