Domestic violence watchdogs have noted a vile, new coronavirus-related trend of victims’ faces being coughed into by their abusive partners.
Women’s Aid has warned the Covid-19 emergency has left more domestic abuse victims than ever trapped at home with their abusers.
And the organisation says it’s concerned that both the number and severity of domestic abuse incidents are likely to soar, as the prospect of a full lockdown in Ireland looms ever closer.
Both Italy and China - two of the nations hit hardest by the killer virus - have experienced a sharp rise in domestic violence during the crisis, according to reports.
Fears are now growing that abuse victims in Ireland could be even more isolated in the coming weeks if further restrictions on movements come into place to combat the killer bug.
And with already stretched refuges close to capacity, Women’s Aid has called on the government to fast-track alternative accommodation, such as hotels.
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Sarah Benson, CEO of the organisation, said: “These are unprecedented circumstances for victims of domestic violence, because many of them are now with their abusers at home 24/7, which means they’re more exposed to their controlling behaviour and abuse.
“We’ve already had reports into us of abusive partners coughing into the faces of victims, and other trends like refusing to wash their hands. This is absolutely disgusting and shows how abusers are using this crisis to further their control.
“Normally the victim would be able to leave the house at some stage to get away from their abuser, but that is very difficult now, and with the current restrictions, even moving to her parents’ house would be out the question.
“So in many cases the levels of anxiety are through the roof and victims will be walking on eggshells constantly.”
However, despite growing concern for women and children who are virtually imprisoned at home with violent partners, Ms. Benson stressed support would continue to be provided by the organisation - even in these challenging circumstances.
She added: “Gardai play a critical role at times like this and will investigate all domestic abuse incidents. Our 24-hour national freephone helpline will remain active and women can still make applications for interim protection orders in court.
“But we need some creative thinking, too, to come up with new accommodation for domestic abuse victims. There are refuges, but they are under-resourced, and nearly full to capacity. So the longer this pandemic goes on, we’ll need new places of refuge to be made available.”
- The Women’s Aid 24hour National Freephone Helpline is 1800-341 900. For more information, see womensaid.ie.
