Domestic Abuse During the Coronavirus Lockdown

There is no doubt that Coronavirus will have a serious impact on the lives of women and children.  Domestic abuse victims may feel unsafe with the prospect of being isolated in their house with their perpetrator. 

The police are a key service when in immediate danger.  Victims should not be afraid to call 999 in an emergency.  Domestic abuse is a crime and the police are equipped to deal with these situations. 

It is important to have a close contact, family member or trusted friend who you can call and possibly stay with if matters escalate and you need to leave home immediately.

An experienced solicitor can help to protect you and your children if you suffer from any violence and threats of violence or intimidation and harassment by issuing a Non-Molestation Order.  An Occupation Order regulates the occupation of the home. It can exclude the perpetrator from the home completely.

If you are experiencing domestic abuse, please contact us on 01277 284542 to discuss the legal options available to you. 

What constitutes domestic abuse?

Police have already reported a rise in domestic abuse since the Coronavirus crisis began, with the national Domestic  Violence Helpline receiving more calls than normal.

Victims of domestic abuse commonly experience one of the following (this is not a definitive list so if you are unsure, you should seek help immediately)

What are your options during lockdown?

The government has agreed that measures to tackle the Coronavirus could cause anxiety for victims of domestic abuse or those who feel they are at risk of domestic abuse.

Home Secretary Priti Patel recently announced that during the coronavirus lockdown victims of domestic abuse are still permitted to leave their homes.