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Victims of domestic violence in South Tyneside are being reminded that help is still at hand throughout the Coronavirus lockdown.

While the pandemic has impacted everyone's day to day life, the number of calls for help from victims of domestic violence has rocketed across the country in recent weeks.

Councillor Tracey Dixon, Deputy Leader of Â鶹ÊÓƵ with responsibility for Independence and Wellbeing, said: "Under the current guidelines where people are being asked to stay at home, this can leave victims isolated with the perpetrator.

"It's important that victims know they are not alone. Although services might be being delivered differently, they are still available and we will do all we can to help."

Anyone who feels that they, or someone they know, is in immediate danger should call  999 and ask for the police. Silent calls can be made to the police if it is not safe to speak - to use the 'silent solution system' call 999 and then press 55. 

A directory of services, guidance and personal safety planning advice can be found at: Domestic abuse services directory

For those not in immediate danger, the following services can offer support:

• Impact Family Services (South Tyneside): 07375788835 
• Refuge (24 hours) 0808 2000 247 
• England: Freephone 24h National Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0808 247 2000
• LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0800 999 5428help@galop.org.uk
• Men's Advice Line: 0808 801 0327 info@mensadviceline.org.uk
• Karma Nirvana, UK Helpline for 'honour'-based abuse and forced marriage: 0800 5999 247
• Respect helpline (for anyone worried about their own behaviour): 0808 802 0321

Anyone facing homelessness as a result of domestic abuse in South Tyneside is asked to contact the Housing Options Service on 0300 123 6633 or email Housing.Options@southtynesidehomes.org.uk

A new hardship fund has been established to support residents in financial crisis due to the Covid-19 pandemic - the service can be reached on: 0191 424 7444.

For those who do not have family or friends to support them, the Council's COVID-19 Support Hub is now fully operational out of Hebburn Central and can be contacted direct on 0191 424 7575.

The COVID-19 Support Hub will also provide support to other vulnerable residents, who may not have a 'critical' medical condition, but who are self-isolating at home due to being identified as 'vulnerable' or because they are displaying symptoms, and do not have their own support network to help them.

Anyone worried about a vulnerable adult experiencing domestic abuse, is asked to contact the Let's Talk Team on 0191 4246000 or by email at LetsTalk@Southtyneside.gov.uk

Any residents with concerns about a child who might be witnessing or experiencing domestic abuse should speak to Children's Services (Integrated Safeguarding Intervention Team), on 0191 4245010 (Out of Hours/Emergency Duty Team (Adults and Children): 01914562093)