Troubles at Home

In this time of isolation and staying at home, there is an increase in the incidence of domestic violence and abuse. Family tensions are increased and victims may feel they cannot escape and may be in isolation with their abuser.

This video gives insight into the potential nature and character of domestic abuse.

 If you are worried about yourself, or you are concerned about someone else, below are some contact details that may be useful.

STARS, Dorset

Sexual Trauma and Recovery Service

STARS Dorset provides support for survivors of sexual violence or trauma, via a Telephone Support Line for anyone who has been affected by sexual violence such as rape, child abuse and sexual assault at any time in their life, and will be increasing the availability of this line throughout the COVID-19 period. For general enquiries, the charity’s main number 01202 308840 will be operational during usual opening hours 9am – 5pm, Monday – Friday. Their website can be accessed here.

Domestic Abuse

Dorset Police and other organisations across Dorset, Poole and Bournemouth are raising awareness around domestic abuse amid concerns it may increase over the coming weeks due to the impact of coronavirus. Communities are being reassured they will still have access to vital support services despite the current uncertainty. A new campaign will highlight the fact that whatever type of abuse takes place – whether it is physical, sexual, emotional, psychological or financial – the abuser is trying to control the victim and uses abuse or violence to achieve that control. The campaign will also tell victims how to access help and support.
The service is confidential and free to use. You can get help from the Dorset team by calling 0300 3030 163 from Monday to Friday 9am-6.30pm.  
Other help is available from the National Domestic Violence Helpline, a freephone number available on 0808 2000247 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

SaveLives and Women’s Aid

The SafeLives web page can be accessed here, and Women’s Aid has a website with an email, and an online chat room available 10am-12pm, Monday to Friday. Residents in the Dorset council area can also call: 0130 5221016

or out of hours: 

03001 239895 evenings weekends and bank holidays.

If you are concerned someone may be at risk of immediate harm, call the police on 999

Suicide is the biggest killer of young people in the UK

If you are concerned about a young person who might be having suicidal thoughts then please contact HOPELINEUK for practical support and advice. Call 0800 068 4141, text 07860 039967 or email pat@papyrus-uk.org. They are open 9am – 10pm weekdays, 2pm – 10pm weekends and bank holidays. You can also visit their website, papyrus-uk.org.

Childrens’ Mental Health

If you are a parent who is worried or concerned about their child’s mental health there is support out there. The organisation Young Minds offer information and a telephone helpline for parents who are worried. Call: 0808 802 5544. You can alternatively contact them via email using the following link: https://youngminds.org.uk/contact-us/parents-helpline-enquiries/

You can also contact:

Childline: 0800 1111

NSPCC: 0808 800 5000

Elder Abuse

Contact:

Action Elder Abuse: 0808 8088 141

Age UK: 0800 169565

Silverline: 0800 4708090

Alcoholism and Addictions

We may be tempted in this lockdown period to indulge more in alcohol and drugs as a way of coping. For some this is a dangerous past time, and their usual support networks may be disturbed, disrupted or absent. 

A lot of the support meetings that are usually held at various halls and buildings in our towns and cities, are now being held on-line, and can be accessed by going on line (aa.org) and typing in the appropriate concern into google.

Or call Alcoholics Anonymous on: 0800 917 7650

The clergy team are also available for confidential conversations; see Contacts Page