Just that. They apparently saw a significant rise in DV cases right after lockdown with many couples/families at home together 24/7, and gave this as the explicit reason, why they were loosening the rules somewhat, just a couple of days in. I sure wonder whether that will be near enough to protect vulnerable women. (Actually I know the answer).
It is all very bleak.
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Feminism: Sex & gender discussions
Austrian government loosens lock down somewhat for the explicit reason of a noticable rise in domestic violence.
22 replies
deepwatersolo · 21/03/2020 10:17
OP posts:
HorseRadishFemish ·
21/03/2020 10:41
This reply has been deleted
Message withdrawn at poster's request.
R0wantrees ·
21/03/2020 14:46
BY NATALIE GIL for Elle:
19/03/2020
'I'm Forced To Be Trapped With Him': For A Domestic Violence Victim, Self-Isolation Is Life Threatening
As the government is encouraging social distancing and self-isolation amid the coronavirus pandemic, domestic violence groups are concerned about what this could mean for victims.
(extract)
"The link between isolation and domestic violence"
Isolation is already a tactic used by many perpetrators of domestic violence, within a pattern of physical, emotional, economic, psychological and/or sexual abuse. There are already indications that the pandemic has increased rates of domestic abuse in other countries. Incidents in China skyrocketed after a lockdown was introduced, with the number of cases recorded by one non-profit almost doubling since it began, according to local reports.
'Having to stay at home can give abusers more opportunity to control and restrict women's activities and freedoms,' says Andrea Simon, from the End Violence Against Women Coalition.
Stephanie says the abuse is more frequent when she is alone in the house, especially for concentrated periods.
'When he's around other people, he's the most charismatic, charming person. In private, he scares me. We were alone together for a few years in a different city and that's where the bulk of the abuse happened.' (continues)
How to access help during self-isolation or quarantine
As it stands, helplines and accommodation-based services remain open and refuges are 'preparing for women and children contracting the virus whilst living there – ensuring they can self-isolate from other residents,' Women’s Aid says.
//www.womensaid.org.uk/
Some charities, such as Women for Refugee Women, have stopped or partially limited face-to-face support to protect their vulnerable women, while shifting to new ways of working – including providing their service over the phone, online, by text or by email.
//www.refugeewomen.co.uk/
'Refuge wants to reassure those experiencing abuse that they are not alone. Our services remain open and we have contingency plans in place for all of our services, including refuges, community-based services and the National Domestic Abuse Helpline, run by Refuge,' says Horley. The Helpline has an online contact form, with additional support resources available for survivors, friends and family.
Those at risk can still connect with local Women’s Aid services, and the charity is continuing to support survivors directly through online means including its Live Chat, Survivors Handbook and Survivors Forum.
//www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk/
Meanwhile, Chayn provides online support for victims, advice on online safety, mental wellbeing, law and finance. The service will be sharing daily tips through a webchat to advise survivors on collecting evidence and staying safe from surveillance.
//chayn.co/
It’s vital at this critical time to check in with family or friends who may be at risk, says a spokesperson for Hestia, a charity that provides services for victims. 'Advice and support can be found on Hestia’s Bright Sky app to those experiencing domestic abuse and for those concerned about someone they know.'
//www.hestia.org/
If you feel powerless and want to help services under strain, you can donate to always donate to any of these charities too."
//www.elle.com/uk/life-and-culture/a31779483/coronavirus-self-isolation-domestic-violence/
Women's Aid tweet :
"Reassured to see ‘charities and workers delivering key frontline services’ are included & will be asking for clarity for VAWG sector today"
//twitter.com/womensaid/status/1240898334610636800
Freedom Programme
//freedomprogramme.co.uk/index.php
solidarity & strength to all those impacted.
thread with resources:
www.mumsnet.com/Talk/womens_rights/3452784-Coercive-Control-a-need-for-better-awareness
stumbledin ·
21/03/2020 19:44
On the thread about whether DV workers should be key workers I have posted the link to the joint statement from the 4 UK Women's Aid Federations. This has the link to the services available.
Worth sharing with anyone who you think might need it as it has everything in one place. //www.womensaid.org.uk/vawg-sector-statement-on-covid-19/
Also, but not sure if this isn't just London, Imkaan have compiled a list of support for women from BAME communities. www.imkaan.org.uk/get-help
Women needing support aren't going to be able or wont to scroll through endless threads.
Refuges have not closed as far as I am aware, but as prior to this, many women were not able to find space because cuts have led to closure.
The Domestic Violence Helpline Coordinates bed spaces and the DV comminssioner has confirmed that DV workers are considered key workers.
In the US the National DV helpline has posted a notice saying that with the level of demand women who dont fee safe should leave and live in their car(?) or a motel. 
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