Domestic Violence Awareness - How you can help?

If you see a friend or family member make this signal in person or on a video call, they may be a victim of domestic abuse... #SignalForHelp

 

 

Started by the Canadian Women’s Foundation, it’s a simple single-hand gesture that can be visually and silently displayed during video calls to alert family, friends, or colleagues that an individual needs help and that they would like someone to check in safely with them.

It takes a lot of strength to trust someone enough to talk to them about experiencing abuse, and we want to open up the conversation when it comes to asking for help.

Did you know? An estimated 2.4 million adults aged 16 to 74 years experienced domestic abuse in the UK in last year alone (1.6 million women and 786,000 men)*. And worldwide, it’s thought cases have increased by 20% during the lockdown**

 

 

That’s why we want to let those affected know that they’re not alone and that help is available. Everyone has the right to live a life free from threats, violence and abuse.

We are donating vital kits to local refuge shelters including @oasisdomesticabuseservice and East Surrey Domestic Abuse Services, to help remind anyone escaping abuse and seeking shelter that they are valued and important. We’re currently in touch with other refuges and shelters who we’d also like to support with supplies in the future.

 

 

How can you help? Share this post to let your friends and family know that help, whatever that may be, is out there.

If you think that you, or someone you know, may need help, head to our IG story and follow the links for details on helplines and other resources 💚

 

*Source: ONS
**UN Population Fund