COVID-19: Protect the Vulnerable
The one thing that scares a bully, is another bully because it shows the first that he’s not the only threat in town. COVID-19 has put the spotlight on children and women who are at risk of being abused in their homes and this time the world’s busyness has slowed down enough for everyone to listen in on what most consider a private matter – something to ignore and leave in the hands of others to deal with.
As a result of this lockdown, the number of daily reports coming into agencies across the UK is alarming and Time to Heal is committed to providing support services for women and families who need help against domestic abuse in the north east of Scotland. But you can do something to help the victims and those who cannot help themselves.
We want to remind people that these women and children are more vulnerable to the predators while in their own homes, and at the same time, they may feel trapped indoors because of COVID-19. They are unable to get away from the hurt and pain that is inflicted on them. And are having to rely financially on their abusers for food, basic toiletries and women’s sanitary products.
Children are unable to concentrate and learn during their online classes and women are being isolated even further.
This has to stop now! Please help us stop domestic violence against women and children during this lockdown.
We encourage you to call the Police if you believe that someone is being abused in their home. If you’re not sure, you can contact us on their behalf on our our 24/7 emergency Helpline-08081962620 and we’ll help.
Thank you!
Abiola Crown
Founder: Time to Heal
COVID-19 and Domestic Abuse FAQs
We want to reassure you that all of us at Time to Heal are still here to help you during this pandemic. This includes the Police and other support services that are available. We’ve put together some guidance provided by the UK Government to help answer some of the questions you may have during this time.
24/7 Helpline – 08081962620
No one has the right to abuse another person and we want you to be safe in spite of the pressures and anxiety COVID-19 creates. Please do not keep silent if you need help this time and after the lockdown. We have created a special helpline that operates 24/7 – 08081962620
- Can I still call your offices for help?
We remain committed to helping you and although our teams are working remotely during this time, for emergency support during this lockdown, please call us on 08081962620
- Can I leave my house during lockdown if I am in fear of being abused in my home?
The household isolation instruction as a result of coronavirus does not apply if you need to leave your home to escape domestic abuse and threat to your life. If you are not sure what to do call us at 08081962620
- Where can I get help if I am in danger?
If you are in immediate danger, call 999 and ask for the police – the police will continue to respond to emergency calls. For coronavirus health emergency call 111 (after you followed the guidelines provided by NHS (link supplied below).
- What do I do if I cannot work and depend on my abuser for financial support?
Please do get in touch with us if you depend on your abuser’s finances and cannot work and we will try our best to provide the best possible support.
Also, please read How to access Government financial support provided by HM Treasury on what support is on offer.
Further the charity Surviving Economic Abuse has also provided additional guidance and support.
- Will I be asked to leave my temporary accommodation during the pandemic?
Please insert Time to Heal in-house contact, along with recommended national agencies with their contact numbers for free confidential housing information, support and legal advice on all housing and homelessness issues. Please include emergency helpline numbers where available.
- I am so lonely and have anxious thoughts. Who can I turn to for help?
If you feel lonely, have anxious thoughts and you need help, please you may contact us via our 24/7 helpline – 08081962620. Do not suffer in silence, support is available.
- What is the latest official information on Coronavirus?
For general information COVID-19 – symptoms and health guidelines you can visit NHS website at https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/