New awareness campaign launches to keep people safe from domestic and sexual abuse

9 June 2020

Southwark Council recently announced extra funding for support services to those suffering domestic and sexual abuse, increasing the capacity of its specialist services for those who, during lockdown, are at even greater risk.

Now, the council is creating greater awareness of the free, confidential service, run by Solace, which people can contact if they, or someone they are worried about, need help. The new campaign will help people identify and understand all the ways that people can be abused. Domestic abuse can happen to anyone, it can be physical, sexual, emotional or financial abuse which takes place within an intimate or family relationship and can include neglect, controlling behaviour, forced marriage, ‘honour’ based violence or female genital mutilation.

The service offers a wide range of bespoke support to anyone aged over 16 who lives in Southwark. The specialist advisers can help keep you safe, give advice on homelessness or your housing situation, support you practically on your finances and welfare benefits, show you how to gain access to legal services and offer emotional support as well as advice on parenting or arrangements with children.

Councillor Evelyn Akoto, cabinet member for community safety and public health, says: “My message to anyone who is being abused in any way and is afraid to get help, is that you are not alone. We are here to offer you all the support and practical help you need to break free from abuse. Lockdown has been tough on many people, but we know that anyone who is being abused is especially vulnerable right now, as they could be effectively trapped with their abuser. Please get in touch, in confidence, for you or someone you know, it’s free and we will pick up the pieces for you and help keep you safe.”

The Solace advice and support service is available via telephone and email enquiry, with help and support available to anyone aged 16 and over in Southwark when they make contact:

The council also supports a young peoples service; Yuva working with adolescent perpetrators of domestic abuse who want to change.  The service is open to Southwark Residents aged 11 to 25 years.  The service can be contacted by telephone on 020 8741 8020 or be email dvip.yuva@richmondfellowship.org.uk

Page last updated: 09 June 2020

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