What to do if you feel at risk of domestic abuse during lockdown
The number of people being forced to stay at home during the lockdown has raised fears that there will be more cases of domestic abuse, and that some victims will be either be too afraid to ask for help, or be uncertain if help is available at this time.
People who feel they are at risk are being reassured that police will respond to reports despite the coronavirus outbreak, and that support services are available.
Guidance and support helplines and services:
Dumfries and Galloway
Dumfriesshire and Stewartry Women's Aid - 01387 263052 or 07710 152772 (24hrs)
Wigtownshire Women's Aid - 01776 703104 (24hrs)
Dumfries and Galloway Rape Crisis and Sexual Abuse Support Centre - 01387 253113
Social Work Services - 030 33 33 3001
Cumbria
Safety Net - Works with children, young people and families who have experience of rape, sexual abuse or domestic violence.
Freedom Project - Confidential telephone helpline with qualified therapist and trainers for those suffering from abuse.
Springboard South Lakeland - Offersa unique recovery package, tailored to the individual needs of people affected by domestic abuse.
Independent Sexual Violence Advisor - Specialist support services for victims of sexual violence provided by fully qualified staff.
Restorative Solutions - Working with children on parent violence.
Women Out West - Helps women who are experiencing domestic abuse, crime and other issues which make women vulnerable.
Scottish Borders
Scottish Borders Rape Crisis Centre (SBRCC) - Main number: 01896 661 070 and Mobile number: 07584 149 691s
Children1st - Domestic Abuse Community Service - 01750 22892
Border Women's Aid - 01450 218 409
Borderline - Operates every evening between 7pm and 10pm - 0800 027 4466.
National Helplines
The National Domestic Abuse Helpline is staffed 24hrs - 0808 2000 247
Womens Aid 24hr helpline - 0808 2000 247
Childline 0800 1111
National LGBT Domestic Abuse Helpline(Broken Rainbow) - 0800 999 5428
The Mens Advice Line - 0808 16 89 111
Respect (for perpetrators)- 0808 802 4040
Rape Crisis Scotland - 0808 801 0302
Abused Men in Scotland - 0808 800 0024
Mankind - 01823 334244
Scotland’s Domestic Abuse and Forced Marriage Helpline - 0800 027 1234
If you are in immediate danger, call 999 and ask for the police - the police will continue to respond to emergency calls.
If you are in danger and unable to talk on the phone, call 999 and then press 55. This will transfer your call to the relevant police force who will assist you without you having to speak.