With more people staying at home due to a second lockdown, Thames Valley Police has shared an important message.
Detective Superintendent Rebecca Mears, Head of Protecting Vulnerable People, said: "We often speak of abuse, either of a child or an adult. All forms of abuse are illegal no matter who it is aimed at and no matter what type of abuse – psychological abuse, violence, sexual abuse, financial abuse.
"We know that a number of different types of abuse increased during the first lockdown as adults and children were able to report once they were away from the offender.
"We are now in a second lockdown and those who are being abused are highly likely to be fearful as they now know what is likely to happen to them. If that is you, please raise the alarm however you are able."
Boots consultation rooms provide Safe Spaces
This is where you will be one on one with a member of staff, and can tell them what is happening. Find out more here.
Use the Hollie Guard app
The safety app can track where you are, sound alarms, notify emergency contacts, and more. Find out more here.
Ask the delivery driver, the supermarket worker or the postal worker to call 999 for you
Make a silent 999 call
A silent 999 call itself will not automatically bring the emergency services to your location, nor will pressing 55. Pressing 55 while on the call just alerts the operator that there is an emergency.
Even if you can't speak, the operator will, in a number of ways, try to establish what is going on. Thames Valley Police says that an emergency response is guaranteed if the operator can find out who and/or where the caller is coming from.
If you can say one thing - just say your location.
Contact MK ACT
MK ACT provides support and safe emergency accommodation for people and their families who are escaping domestic abuse. Contact the MK ACT Crisis Service Helpline on 0344 3754307.
Detective Superintendent Mears added: "If you are a new parent and feel like you're struggling, use post-natal groups as a chance to reach out for support. Alternatively ask us or social care for help. That is what we are here for."
