Coronavirus: home isolation and domestic violence during lockdown

Written in association with:

Published: 17/04/2020
Edited by: Emma McLeod

The lockdown and mandatory restrictions placed on the UK to protect the nation’s health from coronavirus COVID-19 have certainly had a devastating effect on the lives of many. It has a terrible effect on the lives of women, men and their children who are victims of endless domestic violence.

At the end of this article, you'll find a summarised list of contact details for support organisations.

When there is no safe space

Home isolation has become the nightmare of those who are forced to suffer gender-based violence daily. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, victims had more reasons to leave home i.e. to go to work, see family and friends, take children to school children etc. Necessary restrictions mean that these reasons are no longer allowed and as a result, the security and safety of domestic abuse victims have been significantly compromised.

Lockdown increases the risk of domestic violence

Due to the novel coronavirus COVID-19, the UK went into lockdown on the 23rd of March 2020. Since then, reports of domestic violence have been increasing. The lockdown has resulted in social instability and economic uncertainty.

If you find your abuser is becoming additionally agitated by financial worries or restrictions on their daily living, you might find their aggression towards you has also has increased.

Despite the emergency situation, services are available that can provide support for you and your children too. You might feel discouraged from seeking help from the police or support networks because your abuser is at home with you, but it’s important to know that you still have access to different methods of help.

If you believe you are in immediate danger, call 999

If you or your children are in an emergency situation, e.g. if you’re being pursued or attacked, call 999 immediately to alert the police. Even during the lockdown, the police are still able to assist you.

The following list contains advice on living with your abuser and is provided by Refuge, the UK's national freephone helpline for domestic violence and abuse. Get their full advice on living with your abuser.

Plan an escape route. Think of where you could run to, how to contact the police and how to alert nearby neighbours. If you have children, tell them where to go in case you get separated. Avoid rooms with objects that could be used to hurt you, like the kitchen. Make sure your children know how to call 999.

If you can’t call someone because your abuser will hear you

Calling isn't your only method. For example, Women's Aid offers advice and support via live chats, email and forums. This way, you can get help discretely without them hearing you. If you choose to email, it’s worth noting that you should mention when it’s safe for them to reply to you.

If you can call someone without being detected

If you are in a situation where you can call for help without being detected, you can call Refuge, the UK's national freephone helpline for sufferers of domestic abuse, on 0808 200 0247. But remember, in emergency situations, you should call the police.

If your abuser is aware of their violent behaviour and wants to stop

If your abuser is aware of their behaviour and its effect on you (and possibly your children too), and have admitted that they want to change it, there is support available.

Respect is a confidential helpline, email and webchat service for people who commit acts of domestic abuse without judgement. They offer support to help them change their behaviour and actions. They also provide support for victims. You can call them on their freephone number 0808 8024040.

It is important to remember that even if your abuser is trying to change, you are not obligated to continue giving the relationship a chance and you are still able to get help if they continue to abuse you.