"We're here and ready to help"- Wiltshire residents reminded support is out there

We are here and ready to support you.

That's the message going out to vulnerable people who may be victims of domestic abuse in Wiltshire amid concerns some people may decide not to access support services or call Wiltshire Police during these challenging times.

But the message is these vital domestic abuse services are still working and people can still access services if they need them online or on the phone.

People who are living with domestic abuse or know someone who is living with the impacts of domestic abuse can call the National Domestic Abuse Helpline 0808 2000 247 which is freephone in partnership with Women's Aid and Refuge, or in an emergency call 999.

FearFree (opens new window) also offers domestic abuse support services during the week, and can respond to people's concerns by emailing spa@fearfree.org.uk (opens new window) or calling 01225 775276.

Cllr Laura Mayes, Cabinet Member for Public Health said: We are all having to adjust in these unprecedented times but we want people to know support is still available and out there, online or over the phone.

One of the most important roles we have is protecting our most vulnerable including those suffering domestic abuse and although we may need to do things differently we are still dedicated to fulfilling this important role.

People can still talk to us and we want them to have that vital support.

Det Superintendent Ben Mant said:  If you're already living with domestic abuse, then the restrictions put in place at the moment have probably left you concerned of being isolated in the house with your abuser.

However, please remember that help is still available; you can still call 999 if you or someone else is in danger. You are not alone.

While some domestic abuse support services are not able to offer face to face meetings at this time, there is still help and advice available online and over the phone. These local and national organisations are working hard to ensure they can still support you.