Press Release

17 April 2020

Fareham Borough Council and support agencies supporting domestic abuse sufferers

Fareham Borough Council and other support services have pledged “You are not alone” to those suffering domestic abuse, in line with a new Home Office initiative launched since the start of the Coronavirus lockdown.

With calls to the National Domestic Abuse Helpline up 25 per cent since the start of the lockdown Fareham Borough Council, Hampshire Police and Stop Domestic Abuse are reacting rapidly to calls received locally.

One elderly woman, an existing Fareham Borough Council tenant, was quickly re-housed this month after she fled from her home as a result of domestic abuse. The Council refurbished and completed safety checks on an unoccupied flat within three working days so that the woman could move in and be safe.

She had no belongings so the Council sourced furniture, bedding, food and other essentials. The Act of Kindness service provided a bed. The woman was put up in a hotel until the property was ready for her.

The Government has set aside an extra £2m to support domestic abuse services with the Home Office’s #YouAreNotAlone initiative designed to help those experiencing domestic abuse.

Councillor Trevor Cartwright, Executive Member for Health and Public Protection, said: “Sadly an increase in domestic abuse is another terrible cost of this pandemic. I can assure all those who feel threatened or at risk of suffering domestic abuse that we are ready and able to help.”

Claire Lambon CEO of Stop Domestic Abuse said: “At Stop Domestic Abuse we know that if you are currently experiencing or have experienced domestic abuse you will know what being isolated and frightened feels like. You might be worried about self-isolating with someone who is harming you.

“We are still delivering services across Hampshire and our refuges are still open. Please do contact us for help and support. Our vision is a world without domestic abuse. We will not stop until domestic abuse does.”

Hampshire Police Assistant Chief Constable Scott Chilton said: “I’m acutely aware that there will be people, in homes where tensions are rising, where they may be suffering domestic abuse.

“It is crucial that you contact us. Call 999 and if you’re not in a position to speak, press 55 and our controllers will know exactly what to do. Please know that we are there for you. You are not alone. Please do call us.”

Refuges and the Stop Domestic Abuse Adviceline can be accessed 24 hrs by calling 033 0016 5112 and following the answerphone instructions.

The Housing Options Team at Fareham Borough Council can be reached on 01329 824343.

ENDS

For further information contact:

Customer Enquiries

Tel: 01329 236100
Email: customerservicecentre@fareham.gov.uk

Media Enquiries

The Communications Team
Tel: 01329 824310
Email: publicity@fareham.gov.uk
Fax: 01329 550576

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