Confidential Webchat Launched To Provide Help And Support For Domestic Abuse Victims

A confidential online chat facility has been launched by East Riding of Yorkshire Council to give those who may be suffering from domestic abuse another way of accessing help.

The webchat has been set up by the council’s domestic violence and abuse partnership and gives those experiencing, or at risk of, domestic abuse the chance to speak directly to an independent domestic abuse advocate.

Councillor John Dennis, portfolio holder for community involvement and council corporate services at East Riding of Yorkshire Council said: “The council is very much aware that the lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic has been incredibly difficult for those experiencing, or at risk of, domestic abuse and accessing the right help and support has been extremely hard.

“Victims may be in isolation or struggling to access support due to the lockdown or perhaps the perpetrator is in the home still, therefore, making access to help and support over the telephone almost impossible.

“This service will provide another route to reaching out and talking to a specially trained professional in confidence and being signposted to the help they may need.”

* Anyone who is suffering from domestic abuse and is in immediate danger should contact the police on 999 immediately.

The service is available between 10am and 2pm Monday to Friday via www.eastriding.gov.uk/domesticabuse and when the web chat is available a “live chat” pop up box will be visible.