Campaign launches safe space in Boots stores for victims of domestic abuse across the UK

Victims of domestic abuse can access safe spaces at Boots pharmacies consultation rooms where they can contact specialist domestic abuse services for support and advice.

Launched today (Friday) by charity Hestia’s UK SAYS NO MORE campaign, the scheme is in response to the situation facing many victims who are isolating with perpetrators during lockdown - Birdsfoot lane pharmacy in Luton was one of the first independent pharmacies to join after the launch with Boots.

UK SAYS NO MORE is the UK’s national campaign for domestic abuse and sexual violence.

While 1 in 4 women and 1 in 6 men experience domestic abuse, the charity is concerned that the figures will be much higher during lockdown, making access to support critical.

Sarah D’Angelis,The Partnerships Manager of UK SAYS NO MORE, from Bedford, has been committed to changing the societal narrative that exists around gender-based violence.

She previously founded Luton’s first rape crisis centre in 35 years in 2009 and has fulfilled consultancy roles both nationally and internationally.

Sarah was due to be a keynote speaker at Bedfordshire charity YouTurn’s national Sexual Trauma conference on 23 rd April, but due to COVID-19, this has been postponed.

She said: ‘Whilst lockdown and social distancing measures continue, it is restricting victims of domestic abuse reaching out to their friends, family and co-workers for support.

"We know there is an increased level of uncertainty for people looking to escape an abusive relationship.

"Self-isolation offers a new method of control over victims making it very difficult for them to seek support.

"We recognise that key workers in communities such as pharmacies hold a unique position within the community as a single point of contact for victims when they are collecting essential shopping.

"The view of Safe Spaces is that it is accessible for people going from A to B, like shops and pharmacies, people can access the support they need when going to get the eggs or a prescription

"Victims can access the support easily, shops and pharmacies are vitally important in the fight against domestic abuse.

"By creating Safe Spaces in Boots pharmacies, we hope many will be able to safely access specialist support.

"We hope more pharmacies will follow Boots UK's lead and join the Safe Space initiative.

"Although we are in a period of lockdown and isolation, our message to victims is domestic abuse services are open and we can help you.”

For 50 years, Hestia has provided support and hope every step of the way of recovery. Today, millions of people are experiencing domestic abuse, modern slavery and challenges with their mental health. Hestia believes no-one should suffer alone.

Marc Donovan, Chief Pharmacist Boots UK said: “Our pharmacies have long been a place where people can turn to for help and advice on their local high street.

"At times like these, our 2,400 stores in communities across the UK take on increased importance, as a place of safety for those who need one.

"We hope that making our consultation rooms safe spaces we can help people find the support they need at this difficult time, when many other options are temporarily unavailable.

"This is something our pharmacy teams feel very passionately about, and would like to thank them for stepping forward to help at a time when they are under tremendous pressure.”

Sara*, a survivor of domestic abuse, who lived in a Hestia domestic abuse refuge said: “Women or men who are now 'forced' to be indoors with the abusive partner or family member really need a 'safe haven' where they can retreat to collect their thoughts and get support.

"Sometimes getting out of that bubble of abuse, that you are in at home, helps you to realise that help is out there. It also gives you a little bit of hope and confidence to take a step towards helping yourself.

"An abuser wouldn't really think that their victim could access help at the local pharmacy or be able to have a moment in a place like that.

"So being able to contact a domestic violence helpline in this way will be life changing for many."

Hestia believes no-one should suffer alone, the charity provides support and hope every step of the way of recovery.

President of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society Sandra Gidley said: “Home is not a safe place for people experiencing domestic abuse.

"Victims need to do all they can to stay safe which is why UK SAYS NO MORE's initiative to create safe spaces in nominated pharmacies is so important.

"During the pandemic, when options for survivors/victims are even more limited than usual, pharmacies can provide the safe environment needed to get support.

"The trust that the public have in pharmacies make them an ideal place to access help and take a step away from harm towards a better future.

"The RPS fully supports UK SAYS NO MORE campaign and would encourage other pharmacies to take part and become a safe space for those experiencing domestic abuse.”

Whilst in the consultation room, people will have access to:

- 24-hour National domestic abuse helpline: 0808 2000 247

- Men’s advice line: 0808 801 032

- Signposting to download free mobile app Bright Sky, which provides support and information to anyone who may be in an abusive relationship or those concerned about someone they know.