Domestic violence support
Across London, the Met is continuing to prioritise and respond to domestic abuse calls and are working closely with a range of partners to ensure victims receive the support and service they need. The ongoing focus remains on preventing repeat victimisation and closely managing serious offenders.
The Met is also supporting the Home Office’s #YouAreNotAlone campaign, aimed at raising awareness about the support available.
Commander Sue Williams, the Met’s lead for safeguarding, said: “The COVID-19 restrictions and “stay at home” instruction is vital to managing this public health crisis, but unfortunately it has also left current and potential victims of domestic abuse even more vulnerable and isolated.
“I want to stress that the Met is still here for Londoners – no-one who is experiencing domestic abuse should feel that they have to suffer in silence. The COVID-19 pandemic does not mean that victims can’t count on us, or that we won’t keep being proactive in bringing offenders to justice.”
“Victims should be assured that they can leave their homes to escape harm or seek help, and they will not be penalized in any way for not maintaining social distancing, or otherwise breaching COVID-19 restrictions. Our prime concern is protecting victims and others who are affected, and bringing offenders to justice. We work with victims to discuss options and put them in contact with the appropriate support services.
“We want victims to have confidence that they will get the support and protection they need, and that officers will deal with perpetrators. If you have reason to believe that a family member, friend or neighbour is a victim of domestic abuse, we would urge you to contact police, or Crimestoppers if you want to give information anonymously – your call could protect someone from serious harm or save a life.”
Useful Helpline numbers
- The 24/7 National Domestic Abuse helpline, which offers support to victims and people affected by domestic abuse, is free to call on 0808 2000 247.
- The Respect Phoneline provides confidential advice and support to help perpetrators stop being violent and abusive, and is free to call 0808 8024040
- Men’s Advice Line: 0808 801 0327 a confidential helpline for male victims of domestic violence and those supporting them mensadviceline.org.uk
- Karma Nirvana: 0800 5999 247 Mon to Fri 9am–5pm supporting victims of honour based abuse and forced marriage karmanirvana.org.uk
- Hour Glass: 0808 808 8141 challenging the abuse of older people in all its forms wearehourglass.org
- Galop LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0800 999 5428 galop.org.uk
- Childline: 0800 1111 If you’re a child or young person and domestic abuse is happening in your home or relationship.
For more information about support services that are available, go to https://www.met.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/daa/domestic-abuse/
For government guidance aimed at people in danger of domestic abuse during coronavirus, go to https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-and-domestic-abuse