South West domestic abuse victims urged to contact NHS for support
The number of people seeking help HALVED during the first lockdown
Last updated 24th Mar 2021
NHS South West has launched a fresh appeal, urging residents across our region to seek support if they have experienced sexual assault or domestic abuse.
The organisation has raised concerns that victims are not accessing assistance during the pandemic.
According to the NHS, the number of people receiving help from its Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs) halved nationwide during the first lockdown, compared with the previous year.
That is despite official figures showing a 7% year-on-year increase of domestic abuse and sexual assault between April and June 2020.
What are SARCs?
SARCs are designed to help those who have been raped or assaulted.
Run by specially-trained NHS staff, their services include emergency medication, medical examinations and emotional support.
Patients can contact SARCs before deciding whether or not to inform police.
'I could not have gone through the past few years without this wonderful service'
A service user for The Bridge SARC in Bristol said: “I was supported from the very first contact, and overall, could not have gone through the past few years without this wonderful service.
"A major asset to our NHS service, and one that I hope is able to reach as many individuals as need it".
What about lockdown measures?
The government has confirmed that anyone fleeing violence is exempt from the current restrictions.
During the Prime Minister's announcement of the third national lockdown, in January, it was announced that victims can legally flee their homes.
We spoke to Swindon's Domestic Abuse Support Service earlier in the pandemic. Between April and November 2020, the charity saw a 41% year-on-year rise in demand for its services.
Chief Executive Emma Rawlings told us about the impacts of people spending more time at home due to Coronavirus.
She says domestic abuse perpetrators have been "in their element" during lockdown:
How can I help keep friends and family protected?
The NHS has stressed that there are a range of issues to be aware of, claiming that domestic abuse doesn't always occur through violence.
Coercive control, 'gaslighting', threats and online intimidation are also considered to be domestic abuse by medical experts.
Free, confidential advice is available via The Survivors Trust National Helpline: 08088 010 818.
Residents who are suffering with any of these issues can also access South West support services here.