Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Daily Record
Daily Record
Lifestyle
Sophie Law

Morrisons becomes first supermarket to launch 'safe space' for domestic abuse victims

Morrisons is set to become the first ever supermarket to offer safe spaces to those suffering domestic abuse.

Victims will be able to contact support during trips to their stores - as the retail giant says shopping is a "routine activity" which is unlikely to alert an abuser.

The move comes as the National Domestic Abuse Helpline reported a 25 per cent increase in calls during lockdown.

From Monday consulting rooms in pharmacies in 117 Morrisons stores will be designated safe spaces where pharmacists - who have been specially trained - can direct those seeking help to the support they need.

Morrisons is the first supermarket to introduce 'safe space' (Ayrshire Post)

Information about the safe spaces and where to get help will also be shared on posters and till receipts in all 494 Morrisons stores across the UK.

The supermarket is working with the charity Hestia which has launched the UK SAYS NO MORE campaign as victims of domestic abuse are forced to isolate with perpetrators during lockdown.

Morrisons will focus on raising awareness of domestic abuse with colleagues across stores nationwide over the coming months to help those who need it the most.

Lisa Leighton, Head of People at Morrisons said: “We want to help our customers and colleagues during this very difficult time.

"We provide an environment for our colleagues where those experiencing domestic abuse feel encouraged and empowered to disclose this, and feel confident that we’ll help them get the right specialist support.

"We wanted to extend this to seek help to our customers. You are not alone.

"Come to our pharmacies and let our colleagues know if you need help.”

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.