Coronavirus: When You're Not Safe At Home

The cases I write about on Talk Murder With Me are a great distraction from the global pandemic we are living through. I really hope you're able to sit, read (whether it be my blog or something else) and enjoy some valuable coronavirus-free moments. Lord knows we all need it.

But while it's good to distract yourself for your own mental health, it's really important to be mindful of the people whose fears extend beyond the virus. It's something that I touch a lot given the nature of this blog.

Domestic violence, whether it be towards women, men or children, has been exacerbated by this pandemic. Everyone who can must stay home. This includes those who live in fear of another person they live with. People no longer have the escape routes available to them during pandemic-free times, like work, school, clubs, friends; anywhere they find solace.

Stress levels are understandably heightened as well. People are losing their jobs. Financial worries are overwhelming. Using alcohol and drugs to cope is becoming increasingly common, further putting vulnerable people at risk.

While many of us are quite happy spending the extra time at home, for others it is a living nightmare.

In the UK, the National Domestic Abuse helpline has seen a 25% increase in calls and online requests for help since the lockdown began, the charity Refuge reported.
Across the United States, the number of domestic abuse related calls to police departments has spiked; for example, Houston police received about 300 more domestic violence calls in March than they did in February, a roughly 20 percent increase.
In the first two weeks of their lockdown, Spain’s helpline for victims of gender violence saw an increase of 12.4% compared to the same time last year, and online consultations on the helpline’s website increased by 270%.

How You Can Help

The virus is everywhere, as is this very frightening reality. Here are some organizations from different countries which are working hard to support domestic violence survivors during this uncertain and scary time (I chose the top countries that visit this blog, but support is available in every country):

National Centre for Domestic Violence - UK

Refuge - UK

Futures Without Violence - United States/Worldwide

National Domestic Violence Hotline - United States

Women’s Shelters Canada - Canada

Shelter Safe Canada - Canada

1800 Respect - Australia

Each of these organizations provide support if you or someone you know needs it. They also provide information on how you can help.