We are working in partnership across Merseyside to inform the public that support is available for anyone experiencing domestic abuse as we know that the risk of domestic abuse increasing during lockdown is high. 

 Liverpool communications team have issued the statement below which can be found on the Liverpool express website and council twitter feed:

 https://liverpoolexpress.co.uk/the-impact-of-covid-19-on-those-experiencing-domestic-abuse/

The IDVA Service and local DA Agencies have made arrangements to enable support to survivors and we will communicate any changes to service provision if required.

‘Many residents will be following the local and national advice around household isolation and social distancing as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 This advice is in place to limit the spread of the virus and keep as many people as safe and well as possible.

 We know that there are vulnerable people in our communities who will be more concerned than others about the prospect of staying at home for a number of reasons, including those who have been the victims of domestic abuse such as violence or coercive and controlling behaviour.

 While all public services are adapting to new ways of working during this pandemic, our message to anyone who is experiencing domestic abuse is clear: You are not alone and you don’t have to suffer in silence – we will still be here for you, no matter what.

 Liverpool City Council, Merseyside Police, Local Authorities and providers of domestic abuse support across Merseyside will continue working together to maintain essential services and contacts for anyone affected by domestic abuse during the weeks and months to come.

 Support will still be available by telephone, text message or online services.

 Who to contact:

 If you, your child or anyone in the family are at immediate risk of harm, you should contact the police urgently, CALL 999

 If you are a Liverpool resident and are experiencing domestic abuse or believe someone you know is please contact support services via:

 www.victimcaremerseyside.org  (directory of services)

 https://ehd.liverpool.gov.uk/kb5/liverpool/fsd/home.page (Liverpool early help directory)

or call

 Worst Kept Secret Helpline:  0800 028 3398

 Further support can also be found at these national agencies:

 Women’s Aid | womensaid.org.uk | https://www.womensaid.org.uk/information-support/

National Domestic Violence Helpline: 0808 2000 247 (24 hours)

Refuge (includes information for men) | refuge.org.uk | 0808 200 0247 (24 hours)

The Men’s Advice Line, for male domestic abuse survivors – 0808 801 0327

 National LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Helpline – 0800 999 5428

Samaritans (24/7 service) – 116 123’