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Lockdown messaging on domestic violence came ‘too late’, Covid inquiry told

Exemptions for women and children leaving abusers was ‘hidden’ in government guidance, a leading charity said

By finlay johnston
Lockdown messaging on domestic violence came ‘too late’, Covid inquiry told
Lockdown exemptions for victims of domestic violence were 'hidden in guidance', a leading charity worker told the Covid inquiry | Mike Kemp/In PIctures via Getty Images
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  • Trigger warning: Contains references to domestic abuse

A leading domestic violence charity told the Covid inquiry the government wasn't clear enough about lockdown exemptions for victims of abuse, leaving women unaware they could seek refuge.

Rebecca Goshawk, head of public affairs at Solace Women’s Aid, said her organisation and others in the sector felt “real concern” that “no announcement of a lockdown had mentioned domestic abuse until January 2021”.

There was an exemption included from the first lockdown that enabled women and children suffering domestic abuse to access help. But Goshawk said this was “hidden in guidance and regulations” and as a result many victims didn't know about it.

If you or someone you know is affected by the issues raised in this article, the following organisations can help:

Childline

A free, 24-hour confidential helpline for children and young people who need to talk.

Phone: 0800 1111 Website: Childline

The National Domestic Abuse Helpline

For women experiencing domestic abuse, their family, friends and others calling on their behalf.

Phone: 0808 2000 247 Website: The 24 hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline

Refuge

Safe, emergency accommodation and emotional and practical support to women and children experiencing domestic abuse.

Website: Refuge

Women's Aid

Practical support and information for women experiencing domestic violence via the Survivor's Handbook and local domestic violence services.

Website: Women's Aid

Men's Advice Line

A confidential service for male victims of domestic abuse offering support to help men keep themselves (and their children) safe.

Phone: 0808 801 0327. Website: Men's Advice Line

National Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Trans Domestic Violence helpline

National Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Trans Domestic Violence helpline run by Galop, provides support to LGBT people suffering domestic abuse.

Phone: 0800 999 5428. Website: Galop

Advocacy After Fatal Domestic Abuse (AAFDA)

Free specialist advocacy and peer support to those bereaved by a death following domestic abuse, including homicide, suicide and unexplained deaths.

Website: AADFA

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