Only today, PSNI have reported they received almost 2,000 domestic abuse calls in the first 3 weeks of the Covid-19 lockdown. Behind these statistics are victims (including
children) who are experiencing harrowing and horrendous ordeals at the hands of
a perpetrator of domestic violence.  For them staying at home to stay safe is extremely dangerous and difficult.

Women’s Aid across Northern Ireland is working in unprecedented times during this COVID-19 outbreak.  This is a time to work together to ensure victims of domestic violence are safe and can continue to access vital services.  As an organisation, we are very much open for business. At present our refuges are nearly all full and we have been working closely with PSNI and other partner agencies to ensure victims are signposted to the most appropriate services.

We have been working collectively across Northern Ireland to contingency
plan and we have made many provisions to ensure we can continue our key
frontline work and ensure the continued safety of families in our services and
our key frontline staff.  There has undoubtably been learning for all of us as we have implemented news ways of working and communicating.  These have included, stringent procedures to reduce potential spread of infection across all services (in particular, our refuge accommodation) and establishment of three emergency crash pads in Belfast, Ballymena and Foyle for high
risk emergency PSNI referrals.  We have also established multi
communication formats to ensure we are getting the support to those who need it most in the community. While Covid-19 has spread, our vital services continue, and our staff are working harder than ever!

At this critical time of isolation, we believe no one should be left without support after the trauma of domestic violence and abuse incident.

We know home isn’t a safe place for so many and we want to ensure that those who need support can access it. Our key message is also clear and simple…

You are not alone, we are here, we want to help.