Page 11 - MENTAL HEALTH: The Yorkshire Post Covid-19 2020 Help E-Mag
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Independent Domestic Abuse Service (IDAS)
the largest specialist domestic abuse service in Yorkshire, is working quickly to adapt to the rapidly changing circumstances resulting from the spread of covid-19.
IDAS support anyone affected by domestic
abuse, providing lifesaving support including refuge accommodation, outreach services and a helpline. As
a result of the latest advice from government, many of their teams will need to work differently and in response they are developing new ways to support people affected
by abuse.
We IDAS are determined to keep their refuges and helplines running in these immensely difficult times and will also provide support through:
their website
For many people who are afraid of their partner and may be faced with being isolated with them for long periods of time, this is an additional risk factor.
said, “We are really worried about the risks of people being isolated with abusive people whose behaviour may escalate due to increasing uncertainty, pressure on finances and cramped conditions. Many people who face controlling, violent or abusive behaviour from a partner or family member are likely to be feeling very scared about being isolated with them for long periods of time. We want them to know
that there is support available.
we will work creatively and in very difficult circumstances. We are immensely proud of
our teams who are pulling together during this difficult time to ensure that there is a way for people to get help is they are afraid of their partner or concerned for someone they know.”
IDAS provides the following advice for friends, neighbours or family members concerned about someone they know:
regularly, if it is safe to do so
you can look out for that might indicate they need help
that help is needed
see anything that could indicate a potential risk
advice on our website
with an abusive person, IDAS offer some safety planning advice on their website. In addition, you could consider the following:
emergency contact numbers in it and hide it in a safe place
or with a trusted person
emergency funds, bank cards and children’s birth certificates to hand
and ask them to ring the police if
they hear or see anything
friends so they know to call for help on your behalf
regularly so that they can raise the alarm if they
don’t hear from you
from easily if
abusive behaviour escalates
could be weapons if the abusive behaviour escalates
For more information get in touch by phone:
Call our North Yorkshire and Barnsley helpline on: 03000 11110
Call our Sheffield helpline on: 0808 808 2241 You can contact us via email at: info@idas.org.uk | www.idas.org.uk
