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David Emmerson offers a potential lifeline to those facing an increased threat of domestic violence during the COVID-19 crisis
These are unprecedented times with the full effect of COVID-19 on the economy and people’s health still to be fully understood. The immediate future appears to be that an increasing number of people will have to self-isolate. If the situation does not improve then the government has lockdown measures enforceable by fines and patrols by the police and army. An inevitable consequence of forcing families to remain in their homes amid very trying social and economic conditions is that there will be a significant rise in domestic abuse. We know victims of domestic abuse who already suffer from social isolation can really have devastating impacts on the safety, health and wellbeing of sufferers.
With self-isolation and lockdown brings pressures and the temptation to ease pressures through drink and drugs. The lack of variety and mounting boredom will be a factor. The intense strain on individuals means that there is more likely to be arguments and irritation between families. When stress
