EXCLUSIVE: 41% RISE in reported domestic abuse around Swindon during lockdown
Greatest Hits Radio has seen exclusive new figures
Last updated 13th Jan 2021
There has been a major spike in reported domestic violence across Swindon since lockdown got underway.
Between April 1 - November 30, the number of people needing help from Swindon Domestic Abuse Support Service (SDASS) rose by 41%, compared to the same period in 2019.
According to the figures, shown exclusively to Greatest Hits Radio, victims with mental health problems had also increased by 11% year-on-year.
Emma Rawlings, the charity's Chief Executive Officer, called the rise "quite concerning" and further evidence of "an unprecedented year".
'Is everything okay at home?'
SDASS is almost halfway through its '16 Days of Action' campaign, alongside local stakeholders including Wiltshire Council and the county's police force.
Following Swindon's spike in reported domestic abuse, the group is now encouraging anyone at risk to get in touch:
However, the CEO warned residents to tread carefully when intervening for vulnerable loved ones.
She is advising people to have private conversations with victims, rather than texting and calling them:
"It's all about managing that risk and supporting your friend correctly and not doing anything that would put them at a greater risk with the perpetrator.
"If they're open to discussion and you're out for that cup of coffee with your friend, then may be just drop it in the conversation somewhere: 'Is everything okay at home?'".
Swindon Domestic Abuse Support Service's helpline is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week: 01793 610610.