Additional support for domestic abuse victims in Sussex over Bank Holiday weekend

Extra resources have been made available over the Easter weekend for services and charities helping people suffering domestic abuse. That's according to support organisations across Sussex, who've told More Radio how their staff and volunteers are on standby to help as lockdown may make some people reluctant to leave their homes. Click here to visit Safe Space Sussex. All agreed that anyone requiring urgent help shouldn't hesitate to dial 999. If a call needs to be silent, possibly because it is being made in the presence of an abuser, staff operating the "Silent Solution" system will still be on duty. This means that callers pressing "5-5" on telephone keypads will be transferred to police, who can request call tracing. Sussex Police Detective Superintendent Stephen Rayland said: "Sadly, there may be an increase in reports of domestic abuse at this particularly difficult time of social distancing and isolation. "Police and support services are working hard together to ensure that we are able to respond and support people if they call and need help." He added: "Domestic abuse still remains a policing priority despite the coronavirus outbreak. "It's really important people know that we will continue to respond to domestic abuse as normal, arresting perpetrators and protecting vulnerable people. "People facing violence or controlling behaviour at home should still report their experiences to police or seek advice and support from local domestic abuse services via the online directory Safe Space Sussex. "Support services are still open and offering assistance, however, this may be slightly revised due to the impact of coronavirus but people can still access help and advice online and over the phone." For West Sussex County Council, Jacquie Russell — who's responsible for the services for children and young people — said: "Any incident of domestic violence is totally unacceptable, for any reason. "Sadly we know that national domestic violence charities have reported higher demand since the Government asked people to stay at home. "The measures are really important in tackling this virus, but we know they are also increasing the pressure on some families." She added a reassurance: "Although there has thankfully not been a noticeable increase in demand for our domestic violence services so far, we have ensured that additional support is in place over the Bank Holiday weekend should anyone need it. "If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse at home, please seek help." More Radio is continuously dedicated to providing a quality news service on-air and online, reporting local stories that matter across Sussex. If you found this story useful, then check out our home page at moreradio.online where you can find the latest from the county, along with features and competitions from our presenters, as well as listening to the station live. You can also sign up to our news alerts to receive updates on new stories. Simply click on the bell at the bottom right of the home page. This will then allow a pop-up which will ask if you would like to receive alerts. Press ‘allow’ and you’re all signed up! You can also follow us on Facebook and on Twitter.