Victims of domestic abuse urged to use services on offer if they need help
8th April 2020
West Yorkshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) is urging people in vulnerable situations to use services that are still available to offer support and advice.
Mark Burns-Williamson, PCC, said that he was especially concerned that victims of domestic and sexual abuse needed to know they could access support during isolation as the lockdown around COVID-19 continues.
He added: “As Police and Crime Commissioners, we are responsible for commissioning the majority of local support services for victims of crime, which includes services for women, children and men experiencing domestic and sexual abuse.
“Now more than ever we need to work with our Chief Constable, Police and commissioning partners to ensure that victims are still able to get the help and support they so desperately need during the coronavirus lockdown.
“I want those individuals who need help and support to know they have not been forgotten, and we are here for you. There are support services that can help you and I want you to know you can access them and we will help you during these really testing times, whether or not you feel able to report to the Police.
“We know that, whilst the necessary guidelines on social distancing and self-isolation will be difficult for a lot of people, for those who are living with abusive partners or situations they represent a real and present danger, magnified by feelings of nowhere to flee to and general helplessness.
“I want to echo what is being said nationally by my fellow PCCs, that we want victims of this devastating crime to know that we have not forgotten them. We are working with police and partner organisations, as well as the Government, to make sure they are looked after and they continue to get the help and support they need.
“I really want to stress that victims and survivors should get in touch, you will be heard, you will be listened to and you will be supported.
“To find out more about victims’ services in West Yorkshire, including to victims who do not want to report to the police, visit our website www.westyorkshire-pcc.gov.uk
People who feel they need help can access support through Victim Support without reporting to the police via telephone or more discreet methods such as email and online web chat.
Victim Support provide a service that is local, independent and they are aware of the different options available to victims in West Yorkshire.
If you’ve been affected by crime, call your local victim care team in West Yorkshire on 0300 303 1971.
Lines are open 8am-8pm Monday to Friday and 9am-5pm Saturday. If you need support outside of their open hours, call the Victim Support Supportline for free on 08 08 16 89 111 or request support via their website https://www.victimsupport.org.uk/help-and-support/get-help/request-support.