Demand for domestic abuse help and support services in Leicestershire is set to rocket during the Covid-19 lockdown

More than £100,000 will be ploughed into the services
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

Leicestershire’s top civilian police chief is ploughing over £100,000 into backing the victims of domestic abuse during the coronavirus crisis.

Lord Willy Bach is acting as he warned that demand for domestic abuse help and support services is set to rocket during the Covid-19 lockdown.

The retired top criminal law barrister said terrified victims are being forced to spend more time alone with their abusers in isolation.

Leicestershires top civilian police chief is ploughing over 100,000 into backing the victims of domestic abuse during the coronavirus crisis.Leicestershires top civilian police chief is ploughing over 100,000 into backing the victims of domestic abuse during the coronavirus crisis.
Leicestershires top civilian police chief is ploughing over 100,000 into backing the victims of domestic abuse during the coronavirus crisis.

"It's my duty to protect all vulnerable people within our community.

“I'm determined to ensure victims and survivors of domestic abuse get access to all the help and support they need to protect their safety in this crisis," said Lord Bach.

"My team and I are doing everything possible to cope with the additional pressure on these services.

“These emergency funds, which amount to almost £104,000, will help our service providers come to the aid of those living in fear from a partner and take necessary action to protect them."

Social distancing measures imposed by the Government to stem the spread of the disease are forcing households to spend more time together.

Fears are growing this will ramp up tension in homes and crank up stress as a result of financial and job worries.

The social crackdown is also poised to have a negative impact on people’s mental health and help offenders exert control and isolate their victims.

Lord Bach is investing in additional accommodation for victims of domestic abuse.

He’s also diverting funds from other projects into support services which help vulnerable people cope with the increased fear and anxiety they are facing.

Lord Bach has set aside £15,000 for Women's Aid Leicestershire Ltd (WALL) to provide emergency B&B accommodation as additional short-term refuge provision.

And the former Mayor of Lutterworth is devoting an extra £58,000 to the service to deliver eight spaces in longer-term refuge accommodation.

"I want to send out a clear message to anyone feeling vulnerable or fearful of abuse and violence during these unprecedented times that we are ready to help if you need it.

“You are not alone," vowed Lord Bach, who lives near Lutterworth.

"The safety of vulnerable victims and their children is paramount to me.

“I'm doing everything I can to make sure the services you need are available right now. “You do not need to wait until lockdown is over.

"I would urge the proprietors of Bed & Breakfast accommodation to consider joining us to offer support at this time, which we are funding.

"The providers I fund are working around the clock and finding new ways to help amid the social distancing restrictions.

“Others are diverting their resources to help those impacted by violence.

“If you need help, please don't hesitate to get in touch.

“If you believe a neighbour or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, take action and raise your concerns."

Those wishing to offer Bed & Breakfast accommodation are asked to contact WALL by emailing [email protected]

If you or someone you know are scared about being in the house with your partner during this unsettling time call United Against Violence and Abuse (UAVA) for help, advice and support on 0808 802 0028.

But always make sure that you ring 999 if you or someone in your house is in danger.