VICTIMS of domestic violence and abuse can still access help during the coronavirus pandemic.

That is the message from Middlesbrough Council chiefs over concerns about the safety of victims and their children facing weeks isolated at home with perpetrators.

The council and its specialist domestic abuse services moved to reassure victims and their families that “everything will still be done to help them” despite changes due to covid-19.

Neighbours, friends or family members who are aware of someone at risk or who have worries have also been advised to report them via phone or email to a raft of services still operating during the crisis.

Claire Moore, domestic abuse and sexual violence lead at the council, said: “In such uncertain times, domestic abuse victims and their families will understandably have a great deal of concern around their accommodation, emotional well-being, child contact and benefits – not to mention their own safety and that of their children.

“The coronavirus pandemic is affecting all of us, but for victims of domestic abuse and their families the impact can be devastating, and place them in danger.

“Social distancing and isolation can leave victims and their children facing the prospect of being isolated at home with their perpetrator, and this can act as a catalyst in itself.

“We need them to know that we – alongside our specialist domestic abuse services – are continuing to offer help and support to anyone who needs it.

“We also encourage everyone to look out for one another and report if they have concerns.”

Among the services still running is counselling and advice service My Sisters Place, Harbour Support Services and Halo alongside a raft of council-run programmes and teams.

Last week, Cleveland Police Detective Chief Superintendent Jon Morgan said the force remained committed to protecting vulnerable Teessiders who could be at increased risk of domestic violence.

He added officers at the force will still be prepared to enter people’s homes where required – while doing their best to follow guidelines set out by the Government.

He also pointed to the “silent solution” where victims who call 999 but cannot speak and wish to alert police they are in danger, can cough or dial 55 once the call is connected.

Operators are trained to know this means you need assistance.

SERVICES STILL RUNNING:

My Sisters Place

Call 01642 241864 for guidance if required or the counselling service on 01642 256036 – or 07873 321371 or email hello@mysistersplace.co.uk

Facebook messaging is available via www.facebook.com/mspmbr/

Harbour Support Services

Call: 03000 20 25 25

Email: info@myharbour.org.uk

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/harboursupportservices

Website: www.myharbour.org.uk

Harbour Support Services can be contacted on its usual number by professionals and the public. Refuge projects are still operating and staff are providing support to clients on the telephone, through WhatsApp messaging and video chat and through the Harbour Facebook page.

Halo

Telephone 01642 683045

Email: info@haloproject.org.uk

Homeless Advice and Assistance

Anyone facing homelessness due to domestic abuse can contact the Thirteen Housing Advise Support Service on Freephone number 0800 130 3667.

Website: www.thirteengroup.co.uk

Email: customerservices@thirteengroup.co.uk

Self-service: www.thirteengroup.co.uk/SelfService

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThirteenGroup

Adult Safeguarding

Anyone with safeguarding concerns about an adult experiencing domestic abuse should call 01642 065070, Monday to Thursday 8.30am to 5pm and 8.30am to 4.30pm Friday or email adultaccessteam@middlesbrough.gov.uk

Any other time, contact the emergency duty team on 01642 524552

Children – South Tees MACH

Anyone with safeguarding concerns around any children who might be witnessing or experiencing domestic abuse should call 01642 130700 or email southeesmach@redcar-cleveland.gov.uk

National Helplines:

Refuge: Freephone 24-hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline 08082 000247

Women’s Aid webchat service: Chat.womensaid.org.uk Monday to Friday 10am-12pm.

Respect UK: Helpline for male victims of domestic Abuse www.mensadviceline.org.uk

Phone 08088 010327 Mon/Wed 9am-8pm, Tues/Thurs/Fri 9am-5pm

Email infor@mensadviceline.org.uk