There is evidence emerging that the Government imposed coronavirus lockdown is causing an increase in domestic abuse in the UK.
As we previously reported, perpetrators of domestic violence may use self-isolation and social distancing as a means of exerting control over their partner and abusing them.
A “reasonable excuse“ to leave home
Regulation 6 of the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (England) Regulations 2020 makes it an offence for a person to leave home without a “reasonable excuse“. This offence is punishable by a fine.
Regulation 6 states that a “reasonable excuse“ includes:
- Leaving the house to access “critical public services“. This includes social services and services provided to those at risk.
- Leaving the house to avoid injury or illness or to escape the risk of harm.
Domestic abuse during coronavirus lockdown – seek advice
If you are being abused by your partner during the coronavirus lockdown, help is available from our team of expert solicitors.
We are able to take your instructions and give advice over the telephone or by video call, and make an urgent application to Court on your behalf, if this is needed.
How can we help?
Melanie Bridgen is a Partner in our Family Law team, specialising in domestic and sexual abuse and children law matters.
At Nelsons, we have a team of specialist solicitors in Derby, Nottingham, and Leicester who are experienced in protecting victims of abuse and will respond quickly to your enquiry.
If you need advice on any abuse-related matter or have any other family law-related queries, please contact us and we will be happy to discuss your circumstances in more detail and give you more information about the services that our family law solicitors can provide along with details of our hourly rates and fixed fee services.
Our team understands how distressing abuse is and handles all cases with sensitivity and professionalism. Please contact the team on 0800 024 1976 or contact us via our online form.
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