Sheffield MP calls for urgent action after surge in domestic abuse during lockdown

A Sheffield MP has called for the government to take urgent action to tackle the surge in domestic abuse during the coronavirus pandemic.
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Louise Haigh, MP for Sheffield Heeley, spoke out following the release of new statistics which show a shocking increase in abuse since lockdown was introduced.

Calls and contacts to the national domestic abuse helpline run by the charity Refuge were almost 50 per cent higher in the week before April 15 than the average prior to the pandemic.

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On April 6, traffic to the charity’s helpline website increased by 700 per cent, compared with the previous day.

Sheffield Heeley MP Louise HaighSheffield Heeley MP Louise Haigh
Sheffield Heeley MP Louise Haigh

The organisation Counting Dead Women has calculated that there were 14 domestic abuse killings of women and two of children between March 23 and April 12.

Ms Haigh has consistently pushed for the government to introduce greater protections for victims of domestic abuse.

She said: “While it is right that the government has implemented a lockdown to stop the spread of the coronavirus, victims of domestic abuse and their children are now more isolated than ever, putting them at even greater risk.

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“Labour is calling on the government to take overdue action to provide urgent, emergency funding to domestic abuse charities.

“This plan would deliver £75 million to the frontline rapidly, to help keep women and children safe from abuse.

“These women and children are some of the most vulnerable people in society, and the government must take action to protect them now.”

Independent Domestic Abuse Services in Sheffield is offering support through online videos, WhatsApp messaging, telephone calls, online chats and emails – call the freephone number 0808 808 2241 or visit IDAS.org.uk

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Support is also available for abusers who can visit gov.uk/domestic-abuse for help.

Always call 999 in an emergency and if you need a silent solution you can cough or tap on the phone and press 55 when prompted.

Sheffield Council says emergency accommodation and support is available for anyone who needs to leave their home during the Covid-19 pandemic.