Gosport MP, Caroline Dinenage, is reaching out to victims of domestic abuse in the Gosport Constituency this Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week.
Every year, nearly 2 million people in the UK suffer from domestic abuse, including physical abuse. On average, 1 in 4 women and 1 in 6 men will be a victim in their lifetime.
Over social media, Caroline is signposting residents in the Gosport Constituency to the signs of domestic abuse and violence and what support they can access. She has her own dedicated webpage that lists the local and national organisations that work and care for victims.
Even during the national lockdown restrictions, victims of domestic abuse may leave their home at any time. They can access support and free rail travel to get to a safe space.
In addition, the Home Office has recently launched a new codeword scheme, Ask For Ani, where victims can go to a local pharmacy, including Boots, ask for Ani to be taken to a private space to access support or help contacting the police. Caroline has already promoted the scheme, asking local pharmacies across the Gosport Constituency to sign up and support residents.
Since 2018, she has been a Champion of Hestia charities the ‘UK Says No More’ campaign that brings together individuals, charities and organisation to campaign for an end to domestic abuse and sexual violence in the UK.
Caroline commented:
“During the pandemic, we have seen an incredibly worrying increase in reports of domestic abuse and violence at home.
“This Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week, it is important to remind victims that they are not alone, it’s not ok and support is out there when they want it.
“Whether it is through local or national organisations, or through a pharmacy with the Ask for Ani scheme, victims can leave their home whenever they need to access assistance.”