The Welsh Conservative Shadow Welsh Minister for Communities and Local Government, Mark Isherwood AM, has today (March 30) added his voice to calls for more support for people experiencing domestic abuse – especially during the Covid-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic.
He is especially concerned that, because no-one is meant to leave their home to socialise, and few people are going to work, being in such close proximity may lead to increased incidents.
Quoting Nazir Afzal, the domestic abuse advisor to the Welsh Government, he said that abuse has already increased elsewhere in the world when countries have been in Coronavirus lockdown, saying that pattern will continue in the UK”.
Mr Isherwood said:
“A 20-percent rise in Northern Ireland has been reported, 32 percent in Paris, and sone 40 percent in New South Wales. Rises in reporting have been seen elsewhere.
“It is sadly likely that we shall see increases in Wales as people are effectively confined to their homes in close proximity with few opportunities to leave the house, and I am forced to agree with the Home Secretary, Priti Patel MP, who said that 'home is not the safe haven it should be'.”
Mr Isherwood said that the Chief Constable of South Wales Police has reported a recent drop in the number of calls to domestic abuse helplines, adding:
“Under other circumstances, this might be welcome news, but being in isolation with your abuser could make it very difficult to seek help, and even attempting could put people at risk.
“In an emergency, it’s still 999, but if you cannot speak, dial 999 followed by 55 for a silent emergency call.”
Mr Isherwood said he and Welsh Conservative colleagues back the Welsh Government’s plan to keep the live Fear Free helpline – 0808 80 10 800 – open during the pandemic, and advised that other helplines for people experiencing domestic abuse are available.
Mr Isherwood concluded:
“But there is a raft of other organisations and specialist support available for women – and men – who experience domestic abuse, and even though their offices are shut to visitors, their helplines are open. Local authorities, too, offer support and advice, so check your local council’s website for guidance.
“Remember, police forces throughout Wales are alerted to the likelihood of domestic abuse increasing, and have pledged to come to help all who need it.”
