AWRC COVID 19 Statement
Asian Women's Resource Centre COVID 19 statement
We are aware that the government's advice on self or household isolation will have a direct impact on the women and children experiencing domestic abuse, for many, homes will not be a safe space, with women spending longer periods of time with the perpetrator, potentially escalating the threat of domestic abuse and further restricting their freedom.
Domestic violence is physical, sexual, psychological or financial violence that takes place within an intimate or family-type relationship and that forms a pattern of coercive and controlling behaviour. This can also include forced marriage and so-called 'honour crimes'. Abuse is a choice a perpetrator makes, and isolation is already used by many perpetrators as a tool of control.
These are unprecedented times for all of us, despite this, the Asian Women's Resource Centre services will remain open to women experiencing domestic abuse and will continue to provide vital support services.
From 23rd March 2020 all AWRC staff will be working from home. Although we will not be offering Face to Face services, we will continue to provide support via digital platforms, 3CX telephones, emails, WhatsApp and zoom. You can contact our offices as normal and calls will be diverted to the officers at home.
For anyone unable to make or receive phone calls at this time, Women's Aid has an online chat function: chat.womensaid.org.uk
In an emergency, call 999. If you are unable to talk press 55 on your phone - this will notify the police that there is an emergency.
The National Domestic Abuse Helpline also has an online contact form where you can state how and when you would like to be contacted: nationaldahelpline.org.uk/Contact-us