The plan was to stretch my legs and get home in time for dinner but I got caught up with the desire to explore my neighbourhood and find new places. There was hardly anyone along the cycle path and the journey was very quiet except for the birds chirping and singing. On either side of the cycle path were cows and horses grazing and rabbits scampering about. There was so much space that I became mindful of the inequalities that mean this situation will impact some people disproportionately and how lucky I am do be able to get out of the urban sprawl on foot to access such an open area.
On my walk I also passed a few homes which were very far away from each other. I couldn’t help but wonder how anyone living there would get help if they needed it. I come from the world of safeguarding and it I sometimes makes me think the worst, which of course may not always be the case. However, part of me was thinking about how wonderful this massive green land would make the perfect place for a quiet and relaxing time or a much-needed holiday. But the other part was asking the questions: “what would someone experiencing abuse do to get help?”, “would they suffer in silence with no one knowing about it?”, “would they know where to go for help?”, “do they have a friend to phone?”, “where could they go from here to get help?”
I must add that access to signal was extremely poor in that area. As it was starting to get dark, I decided to make my way home but felt uneasy that behind closed doors so many people might be suffering at the hands of people who should be caring for them and supporting them through this awful time.
The current guidelines regarding the COVID-19 outbreak that restrict our movement are an absolute necessity to protect ourselves, our community and the NHS.
But staying at home could also provide the perfect climate for perpetrators of abuse to continue or escalate of the abuse of their victims.
Advice from the police and domestic abuse charities and services states that anyone suffering abuse can leave their homes and help will be available to them.
The RCN is committed to supporting nurses and nursing staff to better understand the complexities that surround domestic abuse, whether this affects them personally or professionally. Have a look at our resources here.
Our message is clear – please, do not suffer in silence. We believe you, you are not alone and there’s help for you. In emergency situations always ring the police on 999. If you wish to speak to somebody, contact the National Domestic Abuse Helpline, which is free, confidential and open 24 hours a day: 0808 2000 247.
Your safety matters and we and others are here for you.
For all other matters for our members, please visit the RCN homepage.
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