A LECTURER says the best way many people can help tackle domestic violence during lockdown is by being an ‘active bystander’.

Dr Gill Harrop, senior lecturer in forensic psychology at the University of Worcester, says reporting the crime when you see it, but not taking direct action, is the best way to help a victim.

Refuge, the UK’s largest domestic violence helpline, has reported a worrying increase of 700 per cent as many victims of abuse have been forced into lockdown with their perpetrator.

Dr Harrop said: “A bystander is someone who sees a situation but isn’t actually involved in it.

"The very nature of being a bystander means that you don’t have to get involved at all.

"You can choose to walk away from a problematic situation with no repercussions for you. Or you could take the second option – decide that you’re going to get involved and be an active bystander.

“Active bystanders are a particularly valuable resource in the fight against violence and abuse.

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"By noticing what’s happening around them and speaking out when they see problematic behaviour, active bystanders can send a clear message that violence and abuse will not be tolerated or overlooked.”

Dr Harrop said methods an active bystander could take include:

• Stepping outside and calling the police

• Creating a distraction

• Not laughing when someone tells a misogynistic joke

• Texting someone to see if they’re okay

• Noticing yet another bruise on a victim

• Supporting them by going to the police to make a report

• Staying with them while they call a domestic violence helpline

“Active bystanders are more important than ever in reaching out to those experiencing violence or abuse and letting them know that they’re not alone, particularly as 75 per cent of groups who support victims of violence have had to reduce their service delivery to victims in response to Covid-19,” Dr Harrop added.

Meanwhile PCC John Campion, along with West Mercia Police, is reminding people that lockdown doesn’t mean enduring abuse because they feel they don’t have a choice.

The PCC said: “I don’t want people to be suffering in silence and thinking that they have no option but to stay in lockdown with someone who is abusing them, be it physically or emotionally.”

“There are services on-hand to help those that need it, and I have maintained my support and funding to ensure that the national emergency doesn’t halt the incredibly important work going on across West Mercia.”

Detective Superintendent Damian Pettit, head of vulnerability and safeguarding, added: “Domestic abusers can intentionally isolate victims from help and support as part of their actions, and, during the current Covid-19 restrictions, West Mercia Police are very aware that there may be victims who are even more restricted from seeking support due to following government advice to stay home.

“West Mercia Police continue to police 24 hours a day as normal and will respond positively to all reported domestic abuse to protect the victims and children who are abused or witness abuse.”

If someone is in immediate danger call 999.

A victim in danger can also use the police’s Silent Solution system, where individuals can summon the police without speaking by calling 999 then pressing 55.

Alternatively call 101.

The National Domestic Abuse Helpline can be found at 0808 2000 247.