LISTEN: 40% increase in calls to NI domestic abuse charity during covid-19 lockdown

by Gráinne Connolly

Domestic abuse charity in Northern Ireland Nexus NI, has seen a 40% increase in calls since the start of this month. 

The first week in April saw a rise of 27% in calls, with a further 13% last week in the week of 5th-11th April. 

The charity says the number of visits to the Domestic and Sexual Abuse website have also doubled. 

It has recently expressed concern and fear for victims of domestic and sexual violence during the current lockdown enforced to help stop the spread of coronavirus. 

They say there's a worry the social isolation measures will lead to an escalation of abuse and violence against men, women and children, as it provides an environment that is "known to exacerbate" this behaviour. 

"There is a potential increase in domestic or sexual abuse with both partners being in lockdown together and this could have detrimental impact on mental health."

A spokesperson for the charity said, "We want to reassure everyone that the Freephone Domestic and Sexual Abuse Helpline, managed by Nexus NI, is still operating 24/7 and can provide free and confidential support to anyone who needs it by our fully trained and experienced operators."

Meanwhile, Brenda Kelly CEO of Nexus NI told Q Radio, the statistics show that people are continuing to need or seek support. 

"The Nexus NI team encourage everyone to reach out to friends, family and neighbours and let them know that that our services are available.  Nexus NI work closely with partner organisations and can assure the Northern Ireland community that help is available at all times."

Meanwhile, the NI helpline has been working alongside partner agencies including the Northern Ireland Housing Executive to help provide accommodation for victims. 

"There are options available and we encourage anyone feeling unsafe in their home to please pick up the phone and call the Helpline.   

"Anyone in immediate danger should call 999 and press 55 on a mobile if they are unable to talk and the PSNI will still be there for you.

"Our operators report that the worst part for callers is because their abuser is ever-present, meaning even more in control.

"Being at home with an abuser makes victims more vulnerable, because there is deemed no escape. 

"The Nexus NI team have been working to relay the message that there is help available.

"Our concern remains that both men and woman are in lockdown with perpetrators and are unable to make calls or seek support and our message that we need to continue to share is: 

“Our doors are closed but our services are open”

Nexus NI is also working closely with the PSNI,  Men’s Advisory Project (MAP), Women’s Aid, The Rainbow Project and Victim Support regarding Domestic Abuse and the Helpline provides signposting for individuals to the relevant service or charity.

Anyone who needs counselling or to get in touch with the charity can do so via nexusni.org website or call -  028 90 32 6803.