Jess Phillips reacts to news that in June calls and contacts were nearly 80% higher than usual to Refuge’s helpline

Jess Phillips MP, Shadow Minister for Domestic Violence and Safeguarding, commenting on news that in June calls and contacts were nearly 80% higher than usual to Refuge’s helpline, said:

“The drastic increase in calls to the National Domestic Abuse hotline during lockdown, and the fear of a continued surge as restrictions ease, is deeply alarming.

“These statistics today show the Government is not doing enough to ensure vital funding for this sector reaches the frontline immediately."

“They must act now to protect all victims.”

Ends

Notes to Editors

1. Coronavirus: Domestic abuse helpline sees lockdown surge: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-53498675