We are all struggling with the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic. But for Anna, lockdown led to a terrifying escalation of abuse by her boyfriend: “On the day that lockdown was announced I remember I was eating a hot bowl of noodles and he just grabbed them and poured them over me, burning my skin. I used to be able to escape his violent moods by going to the gym and swimming but during lockdown that became impossible. Eventually, I told a friend and she said: “Pack a bag and leave now, just get out”.
In the middle of lockdown, Anna reached one of our domestic abuse refuges with just the clothes on her back: “Arriving at the refuge I felt very safe. It’s not easy though during lockdown. I’m having to stay in one room and there’s not much space. However, overall I feel a big sense of relief and I just hope things get better.”
Today, millions of people are experiencing domestic abuse, modern slavery and challenges with their mental health. For adults and children across our service, their crises do not stop, they get worse. Hestia believes no-one should suffer alone.
Please donate what you can to our emergency crisis appeal so we can provide essential supplies for the families we support.
COVID-19 will continue to affect all of our lives. But your donation can help us do small things that will make a big difference. Together, we can make sure people find a life beyond crisis.
