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Apr 2020

Last Updated: 20/04/2020

Crime

Harrogate Women's Refuge says abused may be too scared to call for help

by Ami Miller Lifestyle Reporter

| 20 Apr, 2020

The refuge has increased its online support and police have reminded victims of domestic abuse in the Harrogate district that there is a special silent phone line to help them..

Harrogate Women's Refuge has increased its capacity for online support amid concern women are too afraid to call for help when they're stuck at home. The refuge is part of the Independent Domestic Abuse Service (IDAS), its spokesperson Carmel Ossard told the Stray Ferret:

"We haven't seen a huge influx in calls as of yet, but I am worried that this is because people are stuck inside with abusive partners, unable to get any respite. We have seen a rise in online activity, so we have extended the hours for our Live Chat so people can speak to us in a discreet way."

The Women's refuge in Harrogate is still open as a vital means of support for women who do not feel safe at home.

One previous victim of domestic abuse, who is from the Harrogate district told the Stray Ferret that it is a very frightening time:

"The whole world is suffering, but I can’t help but think about the numbers of domestic abuse increasing during the pandemic. Working for the NHS and being a champion for IDAS I just want everyone who is going through abuse right now to know they are not alone. I was a victim during my pregnancy, and I reached out to my doctor, and it has changed my life. My advice to anyone right now is that speaking out is frightening, but you are already stronger and braver then you can ever imagine. Telling a professional and seeking help will only strengthen you. 3 years later I am the strongest I have ever been. I smile every day, and that is all because of the support I received by the police, my local team at IDAS and my family, friends and every person who helped me get me through it at work."

Carmel Ossard from IDAS said that when the lockdown is lifted there may be a surge in the level of abuse:

" Some people, both victims and abusers, had ways of managing domestic violence before, but we are now in a time where the pressure is rising as people spend more time at home. I want these people to know that help is still available."

If you are in need of support you can call the IDAS North Yorkshire helpline on 03000 110 110

A way of calling if you can't speak

The Silent Solution, which is being promoted by North Yorkshire Police, allows someone who calls 999 on a mobile but can't speak or make a noise, to indicate that they need an emergency police response by pressing 55..

A spokesperson for North Yorkshire Police, said:

"It's really important to listen to the instruction given by the call handler and to press 55 when prompted by them. When 55 is pressed, the call handler will connect the call through to the police."