Police 999 Silent Solution System
During lockdown measures, it may be difficult to speak on the phone to advise the police of instances of abuse without being heard and risking further harm. The silent solution system is for those in an emergency who require police help but can not speak. After dialling 999 from a mobile phone you will be prompted to press 55 to access the silent solution system. The operator will then ask a series of yes and no questions that can be responded to using the keypad. Silent solution is not available on landlines.
The government has updated guidance for during COVID-19, Domestic Abuse Injunctions can be applied for remotely. Details of how to apply can be found here.
Organisations and charities offering help and support for victims:
Halton Domestic Abuse Service
Halton Domestic Abuse Service can be contacted 24/7 on 0300 11 11 247.
If you are concerned about an adult and think they may be subject to abuse, you can ring Halton Borough Council Adult Social Care Services on 0151 907 8306.
National Domestic Abuse Hotline
The National Domestic Abuse Hotline is a freephone number 0808 2000 247, they can provide advice and support for victims of domestic abuse.
Bright Sky App
The Bright Sky app should only be downloaded to phones if it is safe to do so and there is no risk of the perpetrator accessing the device. The app can help record instances of abuse and provides information and guidance alongside linking into local services.
Chayn
A lot of the families we work with may speak limited amounts of English. Chayn provides information, advice and online chat in other languages including Arabic and French. They can offer advice on building a case, wellbeing and confidence building.
Safelives
Safelives have put together guidance specific to experiencing domestic abuse during COVID-19, it can be found at In addition safe lives offer a wealth of resources, including information on MARAC’s and DASH risk assessments.
Muslim Women’s Network
The Muslim Women’s Network offers a range of help and guidance, including around Domestic Abuse. In addition they offer help and services around issues such as FGM and forced marriage. There is an online chat option on the website which can be found here there are quick exit and hide my visit options on the MWN website.
Surviving Economic Abuse
Surviving Economic Abuse have produced a guide for during COVID-19 measures including, how to spot signs of financial abuse during COVID-19, economic abuse and coronavirus and how banks can help during the outbreak.
Respect
Respect works with perpetrators and male victims of domestic abuse. Respect have put together specific information and access to services during COVID-19.
Rehab 4 Addiction
Rehab 4 Addiction is both a helpline and source of information for people seeking drug and alcohol addiction treatment, rehab and detoxification.
This is not an exhaustive list of services, as there are many organisations and charities offering help and support for victims. If you offer services and would like to be added to this list, please contact communications@haltonhousing.co.uk.
