Domestic violence high since pandemic, Wiltshire charity says

"If someone is experiencing abuse, the isolation can be really difficult," Ms Marshall said

The number of domestic violence referrals is as high as it was during the Covid pandemic, a charity has said.

Wiltshire-based charity FearFree receives about 100 referrals a week, double the amount it had before the pandemic.

Over the next 16 days the charity will team up with other organisations to help prevent domestic violence.

Claire Marshall, CEO of FearFree, said: "If someone is experiencing abuse, the isolation can be really difficult."

She added: "It's really important to encourage them to reach out. Show them that you're there."

The national campaign 16 Days of Action started on Saturday.

Wiltshire and Swindon organisations have come together to encourage people who know someone in an abusive relationship to help.

Wiltshire Council, Swindon Borough Council, Wiltshire Police, Office of Police and Crime Commissioner and charities FearFree and Swindon Domestic Abuse Support Service, Nelson Trust, and the hospitals in Swindon and Salisbury are participating. 

Ms Marshall said: "We expected referrals to drop after the pandemic, but they've been the same since that time. It shows it's a permanent challenge.

"I think there's greater awareness of what abuse is. But also the cost of living crisis is increasing tensions in relationships."

Ian Blair-Pilling, cabinet member for public health at Wiltshire Council, added: "We all have a role to play in being there for people who are victims of domestic abuse. It can be difficult to know exactly what to do. You may feel awkward about asking or feel you're intruding.

"Ultimately the person who is suffering the abuse may need those words from you or that offer of help so they can take the next step.

"We are sharing some advice on how you can offer that help to take the first steps towards leaving abuse.

"We are a community and we need to support each other."

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