Support for Victims of Domestic & Sexual Abuse During Lockdown
Children and young people are normally seen by lots of different adults every day, like neighbours, grandparents and teachers. But due to coronavirus we’re self-isolating, social distancing and spending much more time at home. This means some families might need extra support with parenting. And if a child is experiencing abuse, there aren’t as many opportunities for adults to spot the signs and help.
Isolation can put young people at a greater risk of domestic, physical, sexual, and emotional abuse.
Efforts are being made at The Harbour School to stay open to help protect vulnerable children. However, it is everybody’s responsibility to keep young people safe and spot the signs of abuse.
Portsmouth City Council has issued a One Minute Guide to abuse during coronavirus:
If you are enduring abuse during lockdown, don’t suffer alone. Please reach out.
For young persons counselling, the Parcs support line is open:
Womens Helpline • 023 9266 9511
Mens Helpline • 023 9266 9516
Lines open Monday 1pm – 3pm, Wednesday and Friday 7pm – 10pm
(There is an answer machine outside of these hours.)
Otherwise please contact any of the other services
- National Domestic Abuse Helpline Freephone 24hr 02394 216 816. Online support: www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk/Contact-us
- Rape Crisis National Helpline 0808 802 9999 12.00 -14.30 and 19.00 – 21.30 every day. Online support: www.rapecrisis.org.uk/get-help/want-to-talk
- Men’s Advice Line for male victims of domestic abuse: 0808 801 0327 or www.mensadviceline.org.uk
- Rights of Women legal advice lines: www.rightsofwomen.org.uk/get-advice/advice-lines
- For domestic abuse perpetrators and those supporting them Respect Phone line provides a confidential helpline, email and webchat service: 0808 8024040 or www.respectphoneline.org.uk
- Childline – call 0800 1111 or access online: https://www.childline.org.uk