"Please don't suffer alone and in silence"

Wednesday 01 April 2020

As the Bailiwick heads into a second week of lockdown, those who feel unsafe in their own homes are being reminded they are not alone and help is still available.

Despite the current restrictions, Safer is continuing to do all it can to support victims of domestic abuse in Guernsey.

"There is another group whom we need to have concern for - those for whom home is not a safe place," Deputy Gavin St Pier said during one of this week's media briefings. "They may be children or adults; they may be the victims of domestic violence. If you are one of those people, please reach out for help.

"It may be harder in these strange times, but there is still help there for you - please do not suffer alone and in silence."

Safer has set up a page on its website offering advice for those who feel trapped in an abusive situation.

Pictured: Support is available at safer.gg.

"We know that if you are currently experiencing or have experienced domestic abuse, you will know what being isolated and frightened will feel like," a spokesperson for the charity has written to victims. "You might be worried about self isolating with someone who is harming you.

"You are a survivor, equipped with the knowledge, strength and tools that help keep you and your family safe every day.

"Remember that you are an expert in your own situation and only take on advice that feels safe and relevant to you.It is important to try and think about the things that may change or make you more unsafe, especially thinking through how you might get help if you need it.

"Always remember that the abuse you are experiencing is not your fault."

Evidence across the world shows that the risk of abuse is heightened during periods of lockdown.

Pictured: HSC President, Deputy Heidi Soulsby.

"My message to any of you who are experiencing abuse or those of you who know people who are experiencing abuse is that help is out there," added President of Health & Social Care, Deputy Heidi Soulsby. "If you are in immediate danger, you must call 999.

"We're not just talking physical abuse here but emotional, financial, sexual or psychological abuse. None of this will be tolerated and the police are there to help."

The charity is suggesting victims find support from family, friends and neighbours if they feel able - setting up a weekly 'check in' call or a code word to let trusted people know they are not safe.

It is also advising victims to come up with a safety plan, or update it if they already have one, with the help of a Safer worker. This might include setting up the Hollie Guard phone app, which turns a smartphone into a personal safety device, or coming up with options if they decide they need to leave the home urgently.

Pictured: The Hollie guard app is free on all iOS, Android and Windows phones.

"There’s also an app called Hollie that can help," Deputy Soulsby continued. "It turns your smart phone into a safety device which can be activated by shaking it, sending your location to designated contacts.

"Don’t worry about escaping the house as it will be considered an 'essential' journey."

Safer will man the phones 24 hours a day and can be contacted on 721999. Alternatively, the charity can be contacted on enquiries@safer.gg and will respond within normal working hours.

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger from domestic abuse, call 999 and the police will respond.

Further information and advice for people in an abusive environment can be found at safer.gg.