The impact of domestic abuse in the UK, Covid implications and how we can help.

TRIGGER WARNING: Domestic abuse/ Domestic violence 

“Domestic abuse is an abhorrent crime perpetrated on victims and their families by those who should love and care for them.”-Victoria Atkins MP, Minister for Safeguarding

Full disclaimer: I am fully aware that anyone can be a victim of domestic abuse, regardless of gender, age, ethnicity, religion, culture or political belief, socio-economic status, sexuality, disability, immigration status or any other background. 

The Covid-19 pandemic has undoubtedly brought great uncertainty, affecting the majority in unprecedented ways. It has greatly impacted all aspects of society, more poignantly within the household. Alarmingly, there has been a direct correlation between the rapid spread of Covid and the rise in domestic abuse cases.

In recent months, I have observed the rise in women coming forward to both support and share on their experiences of rape culture, sexual abuse and sexual violence. It has encouraged women to speak out, to not feel alone and reconfigure the narrative on misogynistic culture. Furthermore, like so many others, this movement has compelled me to speak up and I have decided to share the work I have been carrying out.

From 2020 I have focused my spare time on assisting organisations that support those affected by domestic abuse. This is the start of a non-profit initiative to help those most vulnerable to abuse. For the purpose of the first part of this project, I am coordinating donations for charities that aid both women and children/young people across the South of England. 

Domestic abuse is far too prevalent and has such devastating effects on its victims. It is a cause I feel very strongly in supporting and hope to contribute to, no matter how small. My main aims are: 1) to raise awareness 2) encourage others to get involved and create a sense of community in the process. 

Since starting this venture, I have been delighted with the response from friends and family who have joined me in donating new items of clothing and toiletries. I have been genuinely overwhelmed by their generosity. My hope moving forward is that with wider support, this will continue to grow and help others. 

Following in the wise words of HRH The Duchess of Cornwall, Patron of SafeLives: "I thought to myself, this is going on, what are we doing about it?”. I have been inspired to cast the net further afield and encourage those in my wider community to support this cause. 

If you would like to be involved and are able to donate, please do not hesitate to contact me. I have created a private list of items that the organisations are short of. I can also provide further information on how to donate and my further upcoming projects. 

I have been humbled by the tireless work and support these charities and services offer. Finally, to both victims and survivors of domestic abuse: #YouAreNotAlone . 

Flora Gibbs