Police in Essex respond to over 300 victims of domestic abuse during April coronavirus lockdown

Essex Police have carried out safeguarding actions for 320 domestic abuse victims during April.

The force released the latest statistics on Tuesday, 21 April, adding that the figure included victims who had reported incidents to police and those whose partners are being released from prison.

In the month from 17 March - which includes the entire period of lockdown so far - the county's force have also obtained 30 domestic violence protection orders (DVPO) through the courts.

There has been increased concern about a spike in domestic violence cases because of the coronavirus outbreak, but officers have reassured the public specialist teams are working to catch abusers.

Read more: ITV Anglia's Kate Prout speaks to one domestic abuse survivor about the impact the lockdown will have

Chief Superintendent Andrew Mariner said: “There has been more spotlight on domestic abuse with people spending more time indoors with their families, partners and children during these unprecedented times.

“You may have seen plenty of images of our officers on patrol in your communities but what you may not have seen is specialist domestic abuse teams working hard behind the scenes to protect and safeguard victims and to restrict abusers – be it locking them in prison to securing orders against them.

“Our control call handlers have been dealing with domestic related 999 calls and they are also trained in responding to silent calls. If you call us and then hold 5-5, an operator will know you are in danger and they will be able to respond accordingly."

In the month from the 17 March, police prosecuted five men for breaching DVPOs, with one of the offenders receiving a prison sentence.

The lockdown has seen the Home Secretary Priti Patel launch a domestic abuse helpline, which can be contacted on 0808 2000 247.

Announcing the service, the Witham MP said: "For the victims of these crimes, home is not the safe haven that it should be and that is why I have been working with law enforcement, charities, schools, businesses and local councils to address this changing threat picture."

Essex residents can also support from COMPASS, an agency funded by the County Council and Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner.

Its website provides advice for victims of domestic abuse and their loved ones.

Victims can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, and other charities which help include Changing Pathways, Safer Places, Women's Aid and Refuge.

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