Following the recent announcement by the government to go into lockdown and stay home to slow the spread of Covid-19, we want to reassure survivors of domestic abuse in Lambeth that help is available from the Gaia Centre and you are not alone.
The Gaia Centre is a domestic abuse and sexual violence service commissioned by the council. Their specialist workers provide confidential, emotional, and practical support to any survivor in Lambeth. They also provide advice and guidance to practitioners.
The Gaia Centre is operating remotely during lockdown by providing support via email, phone, and text – whatever is safest. Gaia workers have quickly adapted and are constantly finding new ways to continue their life-saving work during this difficult time.
How they can help
Gaia can help with alternative housing options, legal advice, reporting to police and by creating a tailored individual support plan. Their young people’s service supports children aged 11-17 who are affected by gender-based violence.
Recognising domestic abuse?
Domestic abuse isn’t just physical violence. It’s a pattern of behaviours used to control a current/ex-partner or family member & can include emotional, psychological, financial & sexual abuse.
For many survivors of domestic abuse, home is not a safe place to be. Current lockdown measures to prevent the spread of Covid-19 will therefore leave many survivors feeling more alone and at risk with fewer opportunities to seek help.
Get help now
Lambeth is urging friends, family, neighbours, practitioners and colleagues to be extra vigilant during this time and to check in with loved ones. For advice on how to do this safely and a range of useful tips and support, options see the Violence Against Women and Girls website.
If you are concerned for your own or someone else’s immediate safety, always call police on 999.
To contact the Gaia Centre call: 020 7733 8724 or email: lambethvawg@refuge.org.uk
For free 24/7 advice for yourself or someone else, regardless of where you live, call the Freephone 24h National Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0808 2000 247.
The stresses caused by Coronavirus are not an excuse for domestic abuse – abusing a partner, ex-partner or family member is always a choice. For help to change abusive behaviour call the Respect Phoneline: 0808 802 4040.
