Family law firm walk 500 miles to raise awareness of domestic abuse

Staff at Makin Dixon Solicitors which has seven branches in the north of England, including one in Rochdale, have walked a collective 500 miles to raise awareness of domestic abuse.

Although working remotely from home, all staff at the law firm took part in the two-week effort, culminating in 535 miles on Sunday (10 May).

Staff endeavoured to walk the distance after reports that domestic abuse offences have increased during the Covid-19 pandemic lockdown.

The firm says it has seen a staggering 50% increase in domestic abuse related enquiries throughout lockdown and want victims to know that domestic abuse services are still operating and able to help.

Partner Jane Campbell said: “Domestic abuse is not acceptable.

“We hope we have demonstrated that services are accessible, and this is an escalating problem. We have received many phone calls from people locked in houses with their abusers who feel they are trapped and unable to access help.” 

Miss Campbell added: “We want victims of domestic abuse to know that you are not alone. We are concerned about the increased volume of enquiries we are receiving from victims of domestic abuse.

“People are at home dealing with very stressful situations during lockdown. Families are under significant pressure financially, emotionally and mentally, causing a lot of stress and anxiety which is causing domestic abuse incidents to increase dramatically.”

If you are concerned about anyone who may be at risk of domestic abuse, help is available.

In an emergency, if your safety or your children's safety is threatened, phone the police on 999.

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Helplines

• Makin Dixon freephone: 0330 3031999
• Freephone 24-hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0808 2000 247

Rochdale Connections Trust: 

• Telephone: 01706 345111
• Online form: www.r-c-t.co.uk/contact-us.html

WHAG (formerly Women’s Housing Action Group):

• Telephone: 01706 298222

Victim Support:

• Telephone:  07944 665212 Mon-Fri 9am-5pm
• Email: rochdale@victimsupport.org.uk
• Web-chat: Mon-Fri, 9am – 5pm: www.victimsupport.org.uk/help-and-support/get-help/support-near-you/live-chat
• Victim Support 24-hour support line:  08 08 16 89 111