Every October is domestic violence awareness month and we do our best to bring attention to an epidemic that is affecting families world wide. This year is especially worrisome as the COVID-19 global pandemic has caused a tremendous spoke in domestic violence incidents. Even as lockdown restrictions are being listed, the abuse will not end.
It is a crucial that we create greater awareness of domestic violence as well as information on the prevention, intervention, and help available. This October, join us as we promote the NOMORE campaign and let's talk about bystander prevention. We are taking a stance against behaviors, attitudes, and language that supports domestic violence.
The following excerpt was taken from NOMORE.org.
Domestic violence is all about power and control, and in an isolated environment, control is more easily exerted by abusers, with fewer and fewer avenues for accountability for their actions. Worldwide reports from other professionals in the field verify my fears. In Israel, women’s shelters are running out of room, with one worker describing a ‘tsunami that’s going to happen’(1). In Australia, workers are trying to prepare for the predicted ‘soaring numbers of women and children in crisis’(2) and in Ireland, the situation is being compared to ‘a ticking time bomb’(3). The French Secretary of State has warned that the quarantine could ‘create a fertile ground for domestic violence’(4) and the US National Domestic Violence Hotline warns that abusive partners might use tactics such as giving misinformation about the virus, or preventing victims from seeking medical attention if they need it(5).
If you or someone you know is suffering from domestic violence, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline or call the police if there is any risk of danger. Don't be afraid to speak up and speak out. Below are important numbers to keep on hand and share with others. Be safe and know if you need counseling services, the BES Group & Associates team is standing by to assist.
