Refuge campaign depicts the realities of domestic abuse as cases surge
Refuge, the national domestic abuse charity, has created a short film that lays bare the realities of domestic abuse, as reported cases surge under lockdown.
Actor Maxine Peake stars in 'Surfaces' by Refuge and McCann Bristol
Since Boris Johnson’s request in March that the British public stay at home, calls and contacts to Refuge reported that calls its helpline have risen by 66%, and visits to its website have risen ten-fold.
At least 15m more cases of domestic violence are predicted around the world as a result of the pandemic restrictions, according to UN data.
Furthermore, with lockdown measures easing in the UK, police are preparing for a further surge in subsequent calls from those who have not felt safe to do while trapped at home with an abuser.
Refuge worked alongside McCann Bristol to create the 11-minute short film, which stars award-winning actor Maxine Peake, alongside TV, film, and stage actor Lex Shrapnel.
'Surfaces' takes place over a conference call, and highlights how those living with domestic violence are often isolated and in fear – facing a personal lockdown of their own on a daily basis.
It is the latest of several campaigns by various domestic abuse charities and organisations, that are advertising in order to raise awareness of how they can help those in need of it most at this difficult time.
