Notts police tell domestic abuse victims: “We can help.”

Domestic abuse figures across the force are down since the Government introduced ‘Stay at Home’ guidance in March.

However, Superintendent Andrew Gowan, who leads the force’s Public Protection Unit, feels this is due to victims of abuse finding it more difficult to report incidents via often used channels and not because of a fall in incidents.

Superintendent Gowan said: “The introduction of social distancing measures has had an impact on the ways in which people can report abuse to us and our partners.

“Previously, either a friend, professionals such as teachers and GPs or agencies like Women’s Aid could report on behalf of a person.

“Now that people should not leave their homes except for essential journeys, we are in a position whereby victims in abusive relationships may feel trapped and isolated.

“I cannot stress enough that we are there for everyone in their time of need and I want people to be aware of the ways in which they can still report abuse to us.”

The Make Yourself Heard Campaign aims to show people how they can report an emergency when it is not safe to speak.

Dialling 55 after calling 999 takes you through to a silent call service, whereby call handlers will give you specific directions on how to report your emergency.

Superintendent Gowan added: “Like we have seen around the world, it is likely that during the Coronavirus pandemic, we are going to see a rise in the number of cases of domestic abuse.

“While this is an unfortunate reality of families being in their households more, Nottinghamshire Police is committed to protecting people throughout this time and I want anyone who is in a difficult situation to know we are here for them.

“You are not alone in this and help is always available. Whether it be through us, Women’s Aid or any service you access, we can help you.

“Our stance is business as usual and that is no different when it comes to abuse.”

To find out more about reporting an emergency when it is not safe to speak, head here.

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