The NHS website has advice for the public (www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-body/getting-help-for-domestic-violence/) on spotting the signs of domestic abuse and domestic violence and where to go for help. The NHS also has a help page for those who have been raped or sexually assaulted. (www.nhs.uk/live-well/sexual-health/help-after-rape-and-sexual-assault/)

The Home Office is promoting the freephone 24-hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline number 0808 2000 247 and associated online support available at www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk

As part of the campaign, the Home Office has produced detailed advice for those experiencing domestic abuse and domestic violence. (www.gov.uk/guidance/domestic-abuse-how-to-get-help)

In addition, Respect www.respectphoneline.org.uk an anonymous and confidential helpline for men and women who are harming their partners and families. The helpline also takes calls from partners or ex-partners, friends and relatives who are concerned about perpetrators.

NHS staff will find these resources useful in signposting survivors and perpetrators to specific support teams.

How the public can access help

If you are worried that a friend, neighbour or loved one is a victim of domestic abuse then you can call the freephone, 24-hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 2000 247 and further information is on the helpline’s dedicated website. www.gov.uk/guidance/domestic-abuse-how-to-get-help

If you believe there is an immediate risk of harm to someone, or it is an emergency, you should always call 999.

The Government has a detailed webpage Domestic abuse: get help during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak www.gov.uk/guidance/domestic-abuse-how-to-get-helpwhere you can find out how to get help if you or someone you know is a victim of domestic abuse. In particular, the government pages have translated guidance, welfare benefits and housing advice as well as advice on how to get legal help.

The pages also give details on the domestic abuse code-word scheme. If someone is experiencing domestic abuse and needs immediate help, they can ask for ‘ANI’ in a participating pharmacy. ‘ANI’ stands for Action Needed Immediately but also phonetically sounds like the name Annie. If a pharmacy has the ‘Ask for ANI’ logo on display, it means they’re ready to help.

They will offer the person a private space, provide a phone and ask if they need support from the police or other domestic abuse support services.