Published: Sunday 19 April 2020
A new campaign in central London boroughs will help those suffering domestic abuse during the COVID-19 pandemic to get the support they need.
The campaign will make the national government campaign #YouAreNotAlone – announced last week – relevant for local people, pointing to support services in the boroughs of Kensington and Chelsea, Westminster and Hammersmith and Fulham.
In the last year, 3,000 people sought support from specialist services in the boroughs. Across the country it is expected that cases of domestic abuse will increase during the lockdown period.
Posters will be placed in local pharmacies across the boroughs. Plans are also underway to display them in food banks, children’s centres, GP surgeries, hospitals and supermarkets. Authorities are asking the public to help make sure information gets to victims by sharing posts with the hashtag #YouAreNotAlone.
Cllr Emma Will, Lead Member for Community Safety said:
“We know it is a scary time and not everyone will know how to get the help they need. If you are isolated with an abuser please know you are not alone. Local and national support services are working round the clock and are ready to help you. That’s why our new campaign, working with other authorities and the Angelou Partnership, will make sure everyone who needs support knows how to get it.”
The service is asking for members of the public to help to make sure support is visible to victims by sharing campaign posts on Twitter, Facebook and Nextdoor with the hashtag #YouAreNotAlone so they can reach those in need.
Niki Scordi, Chief Executive of the Advance charity, said:
“Angelou remains open and continues to provide support for people affected by gender based abuse during this difficult time. We are here to support you with a range of issues related to your experience of violence and abuse – both practical matters such as housing, criminal justice, family support, social care, liaising with professionals and emotional support as well.”
If you, or someone you know is afraid or worried about sexual or domestic abuse, support is available.
Call the Angelou Support Service on 0808 801 0660 Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Fridays: 10am - 4pm and Wednesday: 10am - 4pm and 6pm - 9pm. Translators are available.
The 24-hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline can be contacted on: 0808 2000 247.
In an emergency call 999.
Visit our dedicated domestic abuse support page.