Police across the UK, including in Manchester, are expecting a rise in domestic abuse incidents, due to the extra tension within a family who are isolated.
It is feared that abusers will manipulate the Covid-19 situation to take advantage of their power and control over a victim.
As our MLCO and TLCO teams are on the frontline in the community, we have a key role in identifying and supporting people.
For example, we need to be aware of families and carers who may be struggling more than usual at this difficult time, and for those in the community who are receiving End of Life care and could be at risk of abuse.
Domestic abuse is more than physical violence.
It can also include, but is not limited to coercive control and ‘gaslighting’, economic abuse, online abuse, verbal abuse, emotional abuse and sexual abuse. All could be exacerbated by a period of lockdown.
All staff should make themselves familiar with the latest government guidance around domestic abuse.