More than 11,500 disclosures have been made to tell people their partner has an abusive past, since Police Scotland launched a scheme eight years ago to help tackle domestic abuse.
The Disclosure Scheme for Domestic Abuse in Scotland (DSDAS) launched on 1st October 2015, has received over 20,000 requests for information.
Of the 20,005 requests, 11,599 disclosures (58 per cent) have been made to tell people their current partner has a violent or abusive past.
‘a thousand words’ commissioned by Scottish Womens Aid and Zero Tolerance. Copyright Laura Dodsworth
Detective Superintendent Gillian Faulds, Police Scotland’s Head of Domestic Abuse, said: “Abusers manipulate and control their victims.
“Abuse can be gradual and it can be very difficult for victims of domestic abuse to recognise their situation and to then take action to end their relationship.
“The Disclosure Scheme for Domestic Abuse Scotland helps someone at risk of abuse consider their circumstances and make an informed choice about the future of that relationship.”
The scheme operates two pathways, the right to ask and the power to tell.
Under the Right to Ask, people who think their partner may have an abusive past, or their family and friends have concerns, are able to submit an application. Where lawful, proportionate and necessary, a disclosure can be made to the person at risk.
Under the Power to Tell, professionals including the police and partner agencies can apply for a disclosure to be made where they have reason to believe a person could be at risk of domestic abuse.
Detective Superintendent Faulds added: “If you’re a family member, a friend, a work colleague or even a neighbour and you think that someone you know is potentially at risk of harm from their current partner then you can make an application.
“Those at risk from domestic abuse who are told about a partner’s abusive past can then choose the course of action they wish to take, whether to end the relationship or continue it. Officers will always signpost those at risk to support and advice offered by our partners.
“All it takes is one person to alert us and we can help end the threat and harm caused by domestic abuse.”
Submitting a DSDAS application can be done online on the Police Scotland website, by calling 101, speaking to an officer or attending at a police station. Applications are processed within 45 days or sooner.
Research finds extending laws to include emotional and psychological abuse has had beneficial impact
Scotland’s ground-breaking domestic abuse legislation better reflects victims’ experiences, according to new research.
By recognising abuse as a pattern of behaviour, the Domestic Abuse (Scotland) Act 2018 closer matches victims’ accounts of psychological and physical harm over time, according to three small scale research studies from Glasgow Caledonian University, the University of Edinburgh and the Scottish Government.
Responses from 69 domestic abuse victims and witnesses also found most women felt that engaging with the criminal justice system on domestic abuse was ‘the right decision’ to take.
However, respondents also said improvements could be made to how such cases are handled to provide victims with a greater voice in proceedings and better support through the process. Other areas of improvement included making judicial processes quicker and more efficient and providing better training for justice professionals.
The Domestic Abuse (Scotland) Act 2018 was passed by Parliament on 1 February 2018 and was brought into force in April 2019.
The Scottish Government published, in February 2022, the Vision for Justice, which set out that urgent action is required to ensure women and children are better served by Scotland’s justice system.
Measures that have already been taken include:
establishing a Victim-Centred Approach Fund, awarding £48m to provide practical and emotional support to victims, including £18.5m for specialist advocacy support for survivors of gender-based violence
establishing a £53.2m Justice Recovery Fund, including £26.5m for courts, helping reduce the case backlog by 13,000 between January and November 2022
funding the Caledonian System, a programme which seeks to change the behaviour of domestically abusive men
increasing use of Police Scotland’s Disclosure Scheme for Domestic Abuse, helping to safeguard more people who have been harmed or are at risk
The Scottish Government also intends to introduce a Criminal Justice Reform Bill this year to bring forward recommendations from Lady Dorrian’s review on improving the management of sexual offence cases – including introducing a statutory right to anonymity for victims of sexual offences. The Bill will also abolish the ‘not proven’ verdict.
Justice Secretary Keith Brown said: “I know it takes incredible courage for those who suffer domestic abuse to come forward and I am grateful to everyone who took part in this research. We are committed to putting victims at the heart of Scotland’s justice system and the purpose of this work is to use their experiences to make improvements for all.
“I am absolutely resolute that we must treat all domestic abuse victims appropriately and with compassion – the vast majority of whom are women.
“We are already making significant improvements and it is very encouraging that this report found our new laws have better reflected victims’ experiences.
“Given that domestic abuse is an under-reported and often hidden crime, it is also very positive that women who suffered such crimes reported that their engagement with the justice system was the right thing to do.”
One of the report authors, Claire Houghton from the University of Edinburgh said: “It is reassuring that victims and witnesses welcomed the expanded scope of the domestic abuse law.
“However, our study found that it has yet to reach its potential – adult and child victims and witnesses are still experiencing trauma and delays within the justice system and perpetrators are not adequately held to account for the harm to the whole family.
“We look forward to working with our justice partners, alongside victims and witnesses of domestic abuse, to improve people’s experiences of the system and support the vital work of specialist agencies.”
Assistant Chief Constable Bex Smith said: “This legislation was a significant step change in how Scotland’s criminal justice system deals with the full range of abusive behaviour.
“Every officer in our service has been trained, and new recruits are trained, to identify these behaviours and to apply Domestic Abuse Scotland Act.
“Every instance of domestic abuse is unique and we seek to tailor our response to the needs of the victims, including children who often witness abuse.
“We know we don’t always get it right, but we are listening and we recognise how crucial hearing the experience of victims is in helping us improve our response and deliver a service that meets their needs.”
As part of its ongoing Giving Back initiative, AnywhereWorks, the team collaboration and business services provider, has donated a number of Christmas gifts with the fun and happiness charity KidsOut to give gifts to children who would otherwise go without.
The donations form part of AnywhereWork’s Giving Back programme and the company’s commitment to the triple bottom line – people, planet and purpose. Every child deserves a gift under the tree this festive season, but sadly this isn’t the case for everyone.
KidsOut helps children who have fled domestic abuse. Their mission is to give disadvantaged children positive experiences and support them in becoming future members of society. The team at AnywhereWorks has supported the cause by picking up a Giving Tree gift tag with a child’s name and gift request, with all gifts being delivered by KidsOut.
Dogs Trust sees 85% increase in dogs referred through its specialist domestic abuse support service
Dogs Trust Freedom Project supports people fleeing domestic abuse by providing temporary accommodation for their dogs.
Dogs Trust has fostered over 150 dogs in Scotland since its launch in 2018
The charity is appealing for more foster carers to help people and their dogs fleeing domestic abuse
Figures released to coincide with 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence which begins on 25th November1
Worrying figures released by Dogs Trust show that they have seen an 85% increase in dogs in Scotland being referred through its specialist pet fostering service, The Freedom Project, which supports people fleeing domestic abuse by providing temporary accommodation for their dogs.
These figures have been released as Dogs Trust announces it has fostered 153 dogs in Scotland since launching its Freedom Project four years ago.
From January to September this year, Dogs Trust has seen 89 dogs referred to its Freedom Project service in Scotland compared to 48 the same period the previous year, a sobering statistic which demonstrates just how vital the service is as the charity experiences a growing demand year on year.
Pets are often abused and, in some cases, killed by the perpetrator of domestic abuse in order to control and coerce. In addition to the physical abuse that pets may suffer, Dogs Trust found that 97%2 of professionals working in the domestic abuse sector also said that animals are often used as a means of controlling someone experiencing domestic abuse.
In 2004 Dogs Trust launched its Freedom Project, offering vital support for dog owners escaping from domestic abuse and launched the service two years ago in East Anglia.
To date, the Freedom Project has fostered 2,400 dogs and helped 1,900 people. The project works alongside three other specialist pet fostering services; Cats Protection Paws Protect, Endeavour and Refuge4Pets providing foster homes for pets and enabling survivors to access safe accommodation without the fear of what may happen to their pet if left behind.
As many refuges are unable to accept pets, these important services give survivors the opportunity to escape abuse, safe in the knowledge that their pets will also be safe and well cared for.
The pet fostering organisations are also members of the Links Group, which raises awareness of the links between abuse of animals and humans.
The Freedom Project currently operates across the whole of Scotland, in 30 counties across England and has recently launched in Wales due to a demand for the service in the country.
Sarah Petrov, Freedom Project Regional Manager at Dogs Trust said: “Unfortunately, we are seeing an increase in demand for our service, so it’s more important than ever that we are there to support anyone experiencing domestic abuse who needs to flee to safety with their pet.
“We see first-hand the ways that perpetrators use dogs to coerce, control, physically harm and threaten within abusive relationships. This is incredibly frightening for survivors and is often aimed to leave people isolated.
“We have heard of perpetrators not letting survivors walk their dogs alone, stopping them from accessing vet care for their dogs or being able to spend money on dog food and even repeatedly threatening to harm, kill or ‘get rid’ of their dogs.
“To instil fear and entrap, perpetrators prey on the strong bonds people have with their beloved pets – making these animals vulnerable to abuse because of the psychological and emotional damage that this causes. As many refuges are unable to accept pets, survivors are understandably concerned about their dog’s safety when they need to escape; the Freedom Project offers them a vital lifeline.
“Whilst we are pleased to have been able to help so many people, there is still very much a need for our service, and we urgently need more foster carers across the UK so that we can continue this life-saving work.”
Carlie is a victim/survivor supported by Dogs Trust’s Freedom Project when she was escaping domestic abuse. The charity fostered her dogs so she could seek safety.
She said:“I had to leave my home with my children as I was experiencing domestic abuse. I was offered temporary accommodation from the council, but they wouldn’t accept my dogs who we consider part of our family.
“The thought of giving them up was absolutely heart-breaking as the dogs had been the only constant in the children’s lives during such unsettled times at home; the dogs had always helped and supported them and this was another reason we felt trapped in an abusive home with no way out.
“He knew how important the safety of the children and dogs was to me and therefore used this as a means of control.
“I heard about the Freedom Project from my support worker and within a few days we were making arrangements for them to go into foster – the relief was amazing.
“We are now all reunited, happy and safe in our new home thanks to the Freedom Project. We couldn’t have done it without them.”
A spokesperson from West Lothian Women’s Aid, said: “The Freedom Project is a life-saving programme for women who are fleeing domestic abuse.
“Their dogs are not just pets but part of their family so won’t leave their pets behind meaning they end up staying in the abusive relationship. With the Freedom Project, women can flee safely, knowing their dog will be well looked after and will be reunited when they are settled into their own home.”
Dogs Trust Freedom Project needs more specialist foster carers in Scotland to support this vital service.
If you think you can help, would like to donate or would like more information on the service, please visit:
Edinburgh Women’s Aid, which opened its first refuge in 1973 has unveiled plans for a series of year-long events in 2023 to mark 50 years of providing support for tens of thousands of women and their children who have experienced domestic abuse, which includes a competition to design a commemorative artwork to be unveiled at an exhibition in January.
Events planned throughout the year will highlight and pay tribute to those who have provided support for women and their families over the past five decades, with everything from giving them a safe place to stay in a refuge, specialist housing support, legal advice and help securing employment.
The aim of the commemorative artwork is to showcase how the charity has evolved over the years, the ongoing support available to help keep victims of domestic abuse safe and forthcoming plans.
In addition to being launched at the 50th anniversary exhibition, the artwork will also feature on the cover of the charity’s printed and digital Impact Report and various other marketing materials, including pull-up banners, leaflets, website and social media. The winning artist will also receive a prize of £500.
Entries can be created in any medium and should be submitted with the entry form available on EWA’s website, www.edinwomensaid.co.uk, by the 1st of November 2022.
Linda Rodgers, Chief Executive of Edinburgh Women’s Aid, said: “2023 is such an important milestone for us, it gives us pause to remember the amazing women who came before us – who fought against the odds to get our first refuge in 1973, who provided support and sanctuary to countless women over the many years and those survivors who went on to their full potential after escaping abuse.
“We’ll also be taking the time to think about ‘what next’ so that we continue to provide innovative and necessary services to women and children in Edinburgh.”
Women and children’s rights campaigner Lydia Okroj, who has worked with Edinburgh Women’s Aid and Scottish Women’s Aid for over 40 years and recently received an honorary doctorate from Stirling University in recognition of her outstanding work, said: “EWA, which has been at forefront of shaping support services, policy responses and legislation in the city, which has been informed by the women they have supported, have so much to be proud of as they reach their 50th anniversary.
“Although awareness of domestic abuse has come a long way since 1973, when EWA began to provide refuge and support to ‘battered wives’, the need for the charity to continue supporting women, children and young people remains the same today as it did then, which is why it is important to highlight this milestone.
“It’s been a privilege to work alongside so many committed women over the past four decades and to have played a part in supporting survivors of domestic abuse and also to be involved in so many significant changes in legislation over the years, which will be showcased in some of the events planned throughout 2023.”
EDINBURGH WOMEN’S AID REPORTS SURGE IN DEMAND FOR SERVICES
Edinburgh Women’s Aid, which has been providing services and support for women and children who have experienced domestic abuse for nearly 50 years, including refuge accommodation and legal advice, is calling on political leaders to help support the continuation of its services, following a surge in demand over the past two years.
Since the start of the pandemic, the charity has seen an increase in the number of women using their services by almost 10% due to factors including financial insecurity, social distancing and limited access to friends and family, which have made both escaping from an abuser and recovering from abuse even more difficult for women and children.
As a result, EWA, which remained open throughout the pandemic, increased its hours of operation and introduced new ways of supporting women including developing a webchat service and worked in partnership with other agencies to address the increased risks and trauma of those affected by domestic abuse.
They also continue to provide a number of services for children and young people, including outreach support in schools, delivery of the CEDAR, (Children Experiencing Domestic Abuse Recovery), programme, run an employability project, offer access to therapeutic counselling for women, art therapy for children and specialist housing advice. They are also currently running a pilot legal project which enables access to family law solicitors without the need for legal aid.
To enable EWA to continue to protect and keep victims of domestic abuse safe, the charity is calling on all political candidates in the run up to the elections to pledge their commitment to the provision of specialist services for women, children and young people affected by domestic abuse in Edinburgh.
Linda Rodgers, Chief Executive of Edinburgh Women’s Aid, said: “Edinburgh Women’s Aid has been at the heart of delivering services to help protect women and children who have experienced domestic abuse in Edinburgh for almost half a century.
“Our support has been consistently available in the city and we have been learning and developing our services over the years in response to what women and children tell us they need to keep them safe from their abusers.
“During the pandemic we worked tirelessly and flexibly to meet the needs of women and children in Edinburgh. We remained open throughout, increased our hours of operation, developed a new webchat service and worked in partnership with other agencies to address the increased risks and trauma of those affected by domestic abuse.
“Demand for our services is increasing year on year and the provision of specialist support is vital to help women, children and young people to recover from their experiences.
“We believe it is imperative that the voices of women and children affected by domestic abuse are heard by elected representatives which is why we are asking them to pledge their commitment to the provision of specialist services for women, children and young people affected by domestic abuse in Edinburgh.
“We are also urging people to speak to their local candidates at the door or in meetings, and ask if they have signed our pledge and if they are committed to supporting us to end domestic abuse, as without our services even more women and children’s lives would be seriously at risk in the city.”
More than 7,500 people have been told of a partner’s abusive past since the launch of a scheme six years ago to help tackle domestic abuse.
Police Scotland’s Disclosure Scheme for Domestic Abuse in Scotland (DSDAS) was launched in October 2015 following a successful trial in Ayrshire and Aberdeen, and since then has received over 13,000 requests to ask about the background of a partner.
Of the 13,334 requests received, 7,530 people (56 per cent) were told that their current partner has a violent or abusive past.
Detective Chief Superintendent Sam Faulds, Head of Public Protection, said: “Behind the numbers are people who have either escaped becoming victims of domestic abuse, or who are now aware of their partner’s abusive past.
“Abusers manipulate and control their victims. Abuse can be gradual and it can be very difficult for victims of domestic abuse to recognise their situation and to then take action to get themselves out of it.
“DSDAS provides that first step. It can help prevent domestic abuse and the long term damage it can cause victims, their families and their children.
“People told about a partner’s past have the right to choose the course of action they wish to take, and practical support and advice is available from our partners.
“The scheme exists not just for those who may be at risk but for their friends or families to use too.
“Each year reports of domestic abuse increase over the festive period. This year we are acutely aware of the impact of the pandemic on victims locked in with the person responsible for their abuse.
“So this festive season we are appealing to friends, family, colleagues and neighbours or anyone who sees something to call it out if they are concerned that someone may be a victim of domestic abuse. Get in touch with us and we will make sure that person is ok and we will investigate the circumstances.
“All it takes is one person to alert us and we can help end the threat and harm caused by domestic abuse.”
Dr. Marsha Scott, Chief Executive of Scottish Women’s Aid said: “Survivors of domestic abuse face so many barriers to seeking support, and for loved ones it can be challenging finding the best way to support them safely.
“Providing a tool like the disclosure scheme that can inform survivors or their loved ones of previous abusive behaviour, could help in preventing harm to women, children and young people experiencing domestic abuse. If you are worried about someone you know, we want to remind you that our helpline is available 24/7 for confidential advice.”
Kate Wallace, Chief Executive of Victim Support Scotland, comments: “We fully support Police Scotland’s campaign, and hope this encourages people who have experienced domestic abuse to realise that they are not alone.
“With reports of domestic abuse increasing in Scotland, it is important to recognise the long-term trauma that domestic abuse can cause.
“Almost 90% of domestic abuse victims experience financial and coercive control. Our Victims’ Fund has helped hundreds of people in these situations purchase, for example, security systems, furniture for temporary housing, and household essentials. For many this is providing a lifeline.
“Victim Support Scotland provides confidential and emotional support to help empower anyone who may find themselves a victim of domestic abuse, going some way to give people the confidence to take back control of their lives.”
If you, or anyone you know, are being abused or are at risk of abuse, please contact Police Scotland on 101 or 999 in an emergency. Or if you need support please contact Scotland’s domestic abuse and forced marriage helpline on 0800 027 1234, where support is available 24/7.
Our domestic abuse campaign will run across various social media platforms until the end of January 2022.
In this research, 88%1 of households involved in domestic abuse, animals were also abused by the perpetrator
In over 1 in 10 (12%)2 of households researched, animals were brutally killed by perpetrators to punish, frighten and entrap
Where a pet was given as a ‘gift’, abuse against the animal occurred in 94%3 of these households
Dogs Trust reaches landmark milestone of 2,000 dogs fostered through its specialist domestic support service. In Scotland 115 dogs have been fostered. More foster carers are urgently needed throughout Scotland to help people and their dogs fleeing domestic abuse.
16 days of action against gender-based violence begins tomorrow (25th November)7
Almost nine in 101 households who experienced domestic abuse have said that animals were also abused by the perpetrators, according to shocking new research carried out by Refuge4Pets who work in partnership with Dogs Trust.
These figures have been released as Dogs Trust reaches a milestone 2,000 dogs fostered on its Freedom Project, supporting people fleeing domestic abuse by providing temporary accommodation for their dogs.
The research surveyed 107 victim-survivors of domestic abuse and interviewed victim-survivors across the country, to better understand the link between domestic abuse and animal abuse.
Worryingly, the research – carried out by Dr Mary Wakeham – showed that in one in ten (12%)2 of households where domestic abuse was present, the animal – and often multiple animals – had been killed.
Furthermore, in 94%3 of households where an animal was given as a ‘gift’, the animals were then abused and, in some cases, killed by the perpetrator – demonstrating that pets are used as tools by perpetrators of domestic abuse to control and coerce.
In addition to the physical abuse that pets may suffer, Dogs Trust found that 97%4 of professionals working in the domestic abuse sector also said that animals are often used as a means of controlling someone experiencing domestic abuse.
In 2004 Dogs Trust launched its Freedom Project, offering vital support for dog owners escaping from domestic abuse, launching in Scotland in 2019.
The project works alongside Cats Protection Paws Protect, Endeavour and Refuge4Pets providing foster homes for pets and enabling survivors to access safe accommodation without the fear of what may happen to their pet if left behind.
As many refuges are unable to accept pets, these important services give survivors the opportunity to escape abuse, safe in the knowledge that their pets will also be safe and well cared for.
The pet fostering organisations are also members of the Links Group, which raises awareness of the links between abuse of animals and humans.
The Freedom Project currently operates across the whole of Scotland and in 30 counties across England. This year the Freedom Project will have fostered 2,000 dogs and helped 1825 people since launching.
In Scotland we have fostered 115 dogs and supported 86 people to flee domestic abuse. We have also reunited 96 dogs with their families since launching. During the pandemic, incidents of domestic abuse soared and the charity fostered 64%5 more dogs across the country in 2020 and 2021, compared to the previous two years.
Amy Hyde, Freedom Project Manager at Dogs Trust said:“Unfortunately, this new research revealing further links between animal abuse and domestic abuse is not shocking to us.
“We see first-hand the myriad ways that perpetrators use dogs to coerce, control, physically harm and threaten within abusive relationships. This is incredibly frightening for survivors and is often aimed to leave people isolated.
“We have heard of perpetrators not letting survivors walk their dogs alone, stopping them from accessing vet care for their dogs or being able to spend money on dog food and even repeatedly threatening to harm, kill or ‘get rid’ of their dogs.
“To instil fear and entrap, perpetrators prey on the strong bonds people have with their beloved pets – making these animals vulnerable to abuse because of the psychological and emotional damage that this causes.
“As many refuges are unable to accept pets, survivors are understandably concerned about their dog’s safety when they need to escape; the Freedom Project offers them a vital lifeline.
“This year we mark the 2,000th dog fostered through the Freedom Project since we began. This sobering milestone demonstrates there is still very much a need for our service, and we urgently need more foster carers across the UK so that we can continue this life-saving work.”
Audrey6 and her dog, Millie6, were supported by the Freedom Project in Scotland, she said of her experience:
“I had been in the relationship for many years and at one point I was completely reliant on my ex-partner. You don’t realise what’s happening at the time, they had full control over everything.
“I ended up falling out with my family because of the relationship and that made me even more isolated, particularly when the pandemic hit.
“During lockdown, we were in the house together 24/7, the physical abuse was bad but the emotional abuse was much, much worse.
“My ex-partner never hurt Millie, but it was always in the back of my mind, what would happen if I left her? The minute tensions rose Millie would run away and hide. She has witnessed a lot of abuse which has really affected her. You can’t raise your voice around her otherwise she cowers.
“I think if I had known about the Freedom Project earlier, I would have left years ago. I remember sitting outside praying to the stars for someone to give me some ideas – I just didn’t know what to do. I couldn’t lose my dog; I would have rather lived in my car. If it wasn’t for Dogs Trust having a safe place for Millie to go, I would have stayed and I honestly don’t think I would have survived.
“At one point I let the team know it was Millie’s birthday, they sent me photos of Millie with her birthday presents. I cried my eyes out when I received those photos, just to know she was being so spoiled was incredible.
“It was amazing to be reunited with Millie, as I walked around the corner she recognised me instantly. It has been such a difficult road to get here but I am so proud of what I’ve achieved. I’m free and I’m me and that’s all that matters.”
Marsha Scott, CEO of Scottish Women’s Aid said:“We know that one of the problems for survivors accessing housing or refuge is the fear of what will happen to their pets.
“This research highlights just how commonly perpetrators use animals as one of their tools to coerce and abuse. There is already so much loss for a family experiencing domestic abuse, including for many having to leave their home.
“Having a service like the Freedom Project is invaluable in helping increase choices and space for action while providing stability and safety for survivors and their dogs in the process of recovery.”
Dogs Trust Freedom Project urgently needs more specialist foster carers in Scotland to support this vital service.
If you think you can help, would like to donate or would like more information on the service, please visit: www.dogstrustfreedomproject.org.uk
Domestic abuse charity, Hestia, receives £655,000 of support from players of People’s Postcode Lottery
More than 200,000 victims of domestic abuse will now be helped as pandemic causes soaring demand for services
Charity Hestia’s UK SAYS NO MORE campaign is to dramatically expand its Safe Spaces scheme for victims of domestic abuse across the UK, in response to rising levels of abuse during the pandemic.
The Safe Spaces scheme offers access points, through high street partners, where victims can discreetly use consultation rooms to access specialist domestic abuse services.
Thanks to an award of £655,000 raised by players of People’s Postcode Lottery, more than 200,000 victims of domestic abuse will be helped. The funding has been awarded as part of the Postcode Recovery Fund, designed to help communities recover from problems exacerbated by the pandemic.
The Covid-19 pandemic has had a devastating impact on victims of domestic abuse, with the number of cases escalating and support networks cut off overnight. Since lockdown on November 5, 2020, Hestia has seen a 30 per cent increase in demand for support.
Currently, people living with domestic abuse can access over 5,300 Safe Spaces in pharmacies nationwide as well as accessing Online Safe Spaces on many websites. The new funding will allow Safe Spaces to extend to other high street businesses and online, to build a long-lasting infrastructure of support for victims of domestic abuse.
To support the expansion of the Safe Spaces project, 32,000 staff in participating organisations will be trained in domestic abuse responses so victims can access the help they need.
Laura Chow, head of charities at People’s Postcode Lottery said:“Hestia’s Safe Spaces initiative is a great example of a charity that is addressing the demand which has escalated during the pandemic.
“Thanks to players of People’s Postcode Lottery, the charity received the funds to create additional safe spaces for those needing help. Thanks to this funding, more support will be available in our communities and on our high streets, bringing benefits well beyond the pandemic, to those who need a safe space.”
Sue Harper, Head of Domestic Abuse Prevention at Hestia, said:“Right now there are victims of domestic abuse that don’t know where to go or are trapped at home with their abuser.
“Safe Spaces was born in the midst of lockdown as a bridge for victims to specialist support, but it has the potential to support thousands more victims to safety in the future. With the generous support of the players of People’s Postcode Lottery we can now expand this vital initiative, enabling communities to be play a critical role in tackling domestic abuse.”
A survivor of domestic abuse who used a Safe Space told Hestia:“Safe Spaces has saved my life. I had been experiencing coercive control for 5 years of a 10 year relationship. During lockdown, I was shielding and the abuse escalated to aggression and violence, making me fear for my life.
“When I saw that independent pharmacies were offering Safe Spaces, I scrolled through the list with my heart in my mouth and found that my local village pharmacy was listed. Over the weeks I used the Safe Space, I developed a plan to get the abuser out of my home. I am now beginning to feel safe in my home again, but without this support, things could have been very different and far, far worse.”
SGN has partnered with crisis charity Hestia, their ‘UK Says No More’ campaign and Royal Mail Group to provide Online Safe Spaces for victims of domestic abuse to access specialist support and information through our website.
Online Safe Spaces is a portal that you can access via the logo in the footer of our website. By clicking on the Safe Spaces portal, you will access the Online Safe Space, which holds a directory of national domestic abuse helplines, a directory of local specialist domestic abuse services, and an assessment questionnaire. It also leaves no trace in the user’s browser history.
The portal is accessible in a variety of languages and has a quick exit button, taking the user back to the original page they were on, thereby providing a degree of safety to the user.
It comes at a crucial time for keeping people safe during the pandemic. Recent figures show that:
One in five offences recorded by police during and immediately after the first national lockdown in England and Wales involved domestic abuse.
In the year ending March 2020, 2.3m adults are estimated to have experienced domestic abuse over twelve months.
In Scotland, there were 30,718 charges reported in 2019-20 related to domestic abuse. It’s the highest since 2015-16, and is 5.7% higher than the year before.
Around 20 organisations have signed up including eBay, Royal Mail Group including the Post Office and Parcelforce, Ministry of Defence, and Thames Water. It’s estimated that in the last four months of 2020, there were nearly 4,000 visits to Online Safe Spaces every single day.
Claire Barnett, Executive Director of UN Women UK, said: “Covid-19 has led to increases in violence against women that threaten to roll back achievements in gender equality by decades.
“UN Women has been working with local partners to create safer public spaces for the past ten years, including through our project Safe Spaces Now. I am delighted to see the Online Safe Space initiative innovating by using existing platforms and partners to share critical information on women’s services.”
Maureen McIntosh, our Head of Customer Experience, added: “We regularly provide additional support and help to our customers who are living in vulnerable circumstances, and I’m pleased we’re going even further now by providing important information to also help people who are experiencing abuse.
“Sometimes people don’t know where to turn to for help, in what can be really difficult or dangerous situations, and I hope we can help people further and they are able to find the extra safety and security they need.”
Lyndsey Dearlove, Head of Domestic Abuse Prevention at Hestia said: “Businesses have a unique role to play in breaking the silence around domestic abuse and ensuring victims can access the help and support they need.
“Lockdown restrictions due to Covid-19 have provided an opportunity for businesses to step up their response to domestic abuse for their staff and customers through digital platforms. With the launch of Online Safe Spaces, we are delighted to work with SGN to provide their first online safe space to provide a vital lifeline to victims of domestic abuse.”
We’re proud to be the first energy network to launch the portal on our website.
Safety is at the heart of everything we do. We’re committed to doing all we can to keep our people and the communities we work in safe in as many ways as possible.
