We are determined to keep our refuges and helplines running in these immensely difficult times. As a result of the latest advice from government, many of our teams will need to work differently. We will be providing support in several ways, including:

• Online video support sessions
• WhatsApp messaging
• Telephone calls
• Online live chat on our website
• Email

Sarah Hill, CEO of IDAS said, “We are really worried about the risks of people being isolated with abusive people whose behaviour may escalate due to increasing uncertainty, pressure on finances and cramped conditions. Many people who face controlling, violent or abusive behaviour from a partner or family member are likely to be feeling very scared about being isolated with them for long periods of time. We want them to know that there is support available. Over the next few months, we will work creatively and flexibly to provide vital services in very difficult circumstances. We are immensely proud of our teams who are pulling together during this difficult time to ensure that there is a way for people to get help if they are afraid of their partner or concerned for someone they know.”

If you are worried about a friend; family member; neighbour, or colleague, this advice could help to provide a lifeline:

• Check in with them regularly, if it is safe to do so
• Ask if there is anything that you can look out for that might indicate they need help
• Set up a code word to indicate that help is needed
• Call the Police if you hear or see anything that could indicate a potential risk
• Look at the safety planning advice on our website
• Read more about how to help a friend or family member on our friends and family page.

If you are facing isolation with an abusive person, we offer some safety planning advice on our website. In addition, you could consider the following:

• Get a spare phone and store emergency contact numbers in it and hide it in a safe place or with a trusted person
• Keep your ID documents, emergency funds, bank cards and children’s birth certificates to hand
• Speak to your neighbours and ask them to ring the police if they hear or see anything
• Set up safe words with friends so they know to call for help on your behalf
• Plan to check in with people regularly so that they can raise the alarm if they don’t hear from you
• Plan to escape to the garden or to a room that you can exit from easily if abusive behaviour escalates
• Avoid rooms where there could be weapons if the abusive behaviour escalates

For more information email IDAS on info@idas.org.uk