Neighbours, landlords and employers could be a “critical link” in helping to spot and report violence and bullying at home during the lockdown, the government’s first domestic abuse commissioner has said.
Nicole Jacobs, who was appointed last September after working in domestic abuse charities for two decades, is responsible for championing victims and recommending improvements to the government.
She told the Standard “innovative ways” to help victims will be needed in the coming weeks.
Ms Jacobs said: “I think what’s not getting covered are some of the practical things services could be doing. I’m getting increasingly concerned about that wider response.
“Instead of waiting to be reactive, what are the proactive things we can do?
“The helplines are trying to increase their ability to do web-based support. Wider than that we are trying to think of anywhere where people can be the eyes and ears. That would be neighbours, housing officers. They really may be a critical link.
“We are thinking the same about employers, anyone who could be reaching out and contacting people pro-actively.”
The National Police Chiefs’ Council has said that it expects a rise in incidents of domestic abuse during the UK-wide lockdown, and the national domestic violence helpline has received more calls.
Ms Jacobs pointed to new practical advice for housing associations released by London’s Domestic Abuse Housing Alliance. It lists telltale signs to look out for, including significant rent arrears, requests for lock changes, frequent calls for repairs, and neighbours reporting disturbances.
