CLOCK's Coronavirus response

Though the government advice is to 'Stay home to Stay Safe', it is clear that  home may not be a safe space for all in the time of lockdown.  The national domestic abuse helpline, run by the charity Refuge, reported a 65% increase in calls to the helpline on Saturday compared with the same day the previous week, and traffic to its website and use of web chat facilities have increased.  Nicole Jacobs, the Domestic Abuse Commissioner for England and Wales, has said the government must provide support to the charities that provide lifeline services for victims of violence in the home throughout the crisis as they face major financial strain.　　

Please note that due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19), CLOCK will be operating a signposting service so you may seek support from our CLOCK partners in the local area during this time.  Please submit your application through the Home Page tab, and we will be able to signpost you to an appropriate service.

If you or a child are experiencing domestic violence or sexual violence during the lock down period please call 999 for emergency help and the following services can provide longterm guidance and support:

If you wish to apply for a Child Arrangements Application (to decide whom a child should live with or visit) please submit an application and our CLOCK partner Mediation firms will call you to assess your eligibility for legal aid and offer a Mediation Information Assessment Meeting, which is required by the court before you may submit a Child Arrangements Application.

After the MIAM the mediator can signpost you to our CLOCK partner family law firms who are offering telephone and video conferencing appointments. The court is adjourning non-urgent cases, but urgent cases will still be heard.

Update from Mickey Hemmings, New Era’s acting head of service

We value the importance of the CLOCK collaboration to create awareness of the support available to local people experiencing domestic abuse and to signpost those in need to our services.

"We want to reassure everyone in Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent that New Era’s 24-hour confidential helpline for victims of domestic abuse (0300 303 3778) is operating as normal at this testing time.　

Alternatively, our 24-hour live webchat facility (via www.new-era.uk) might be a safer, easier option for someone who is currently confined to their home with their abuser - who might be a partner, relative or carer.　a

"New Era’s specialist teams are providing support for children, young people and adults over the phone, by email, text and Skype. However, we’ve had to suspend all face-to-face meetings and group work for the time being.　

"We’re providing a wide range of services, including emotional support, practical help, as well as advice on how to stay safe and various coping strategies.　

"As usual, we’re working with partner organisations to ensure everyone gets the support they need, including help to leave the family home if necessary.　

New Era’s confidential helpline for perpetrators of domestic abuse, who want support to change their behaviour – 01785 601690 – is available as normal, Monday to Friday (9am-5pm).

Update from Savana

We have over the years been involved with CLOCK and the Law in Action students, and support the vast amount of work undertaken. As a sexual violence service it is important for us to raise awareness around the use of social media and what that can mean for a child or young person.

Please be aware of who your child is interacting with whist using social media, have open discussions, with lockdown measures in place at the moment many more are turning to social media platforms and not all will be who they seem.

If you are concerned please call 01782 433204 and leave a message. Alternatively if you child is having difficulties we have a dedicated service for young people on WhatsApp: +447780181929 services operates between 12-1pm and 6-7pm. Stay Safe