Sadly for many, COVID-19 and the associated lockdowns have had far-reaching consequences on their lives and welfare. During the first lockdown in 2020, the Office for National Statistics show that 1 in 5 reported crimes were of domestic abuse. This is a quite staggering figure when you consider quite how many individuals must have been affected by abuse and violence.
Statistics from the first lockdown
Looking specifically at the first period affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, the police recorded 259,324 offences flagged as domestic abuse-related in the period March to June 2020. This is a 7% increase from 242,413 in the same period in 2019 and an 18% increase from 218,968 in 2018.
The number of offences flagged as domestic abuse-related increased month by month from April to June 2020, with a dramatic month-on-month increase of 9% between April and May 2020. This increase interestingly coincides with the easing of lockdown measures from the 13th May 2020, at which point it became easier for victims to contact the police and find an alternative residence to escape to.
What you can do as a victim
At rhw we have been extremely concerned over the increase in domestic violence in the past year. We have provided advice to many individuals during 2020 and continue to do so into 2021. Violence and abuse against the individual is never acceptable.
If you have been a victim of domestic abuse, seek help as a matter of urgency. If you are currently at risk of danger, call the Police on 999. The National Centre For Domestic Violence can also provide you with assistance and advice.
At rhw, we can also help and offer a range of services to provide the protection you seek from your abuser. We can assist you in applying for a Non-Molestation Order to prevent any unwanted contact or behaviour. We can also help arrange an Occupation Order, to seek to remove the abuser from the home. Our team of family lawyers can draft the application and witness statement on your behalf, taking away any unnecessary pressure from you at this already difficult time.
Lauren Moir – rhw Solicitors llp
