More domestic abuse victims seeking help amid lockdown concerns

Concern for women stuck inside with abusive partners has grown the longer lockdown has gone on, but there are signs victims are beginning to come froward.

Experts say calls to support services have increased over the last few weeks following an initial decline after lockdown was imposed.

There were fears women would not be able to reach out for help while stuck under the same roof with abusers at all times of the day.

Campaigns which have put the issue in the spotlight have been credited as helping victims to seek help.

West Midlands Police Deputy Chief Constable Louisa Rolfe assured victims and families that domestic abuse remains a top priority for the force.

The force revealed it arrested more than 400 domestic abuse suspects during the first two weeks of lockdown.

Police and Crime Commissioner David Jamieson said: "Partly as a result of #noexcuseforabuse campaign that I have led with local services we have seen an increase in reporting of domestic abuse after a period of decline. This is an area of crime that is still underreported. We had early concerns that lockdown was discouraging people from reporting the abuse they faced.

"I want to reassure victims that West Midlands Police prioritise domestic abuse and there are support services in place to help victims cope and recover.

"To help services adapt to the challenges of Covid-19, including those supporting domestic abuse victims in the West Midlands, I have bid for £4.4 million funding from the Ministry of Justice. The services that help victims cope and recover are absolutely essential and I am hopeful that my bid for funding on their behalf will be successful."

A report to the latest West Midlands Police and Crime Board said: “In relation to domestic abuse, sexual violence and first contact, assessment and referral, we remain in daily contact. We continue to hold fortnightly meetings with all domestic abuse providers as this area of business continues to present significant challenge.

"Challenges include increased demand on services, in particular helplines some of which have seen an increase of up to 25 per cent.”