Local MP, Huw Merriman, has offered his support for a campaign that seeks to raise awareness of the availability of Safe Spaces in pharmacies for people experiencing domestic abuse.
Implemented by Boots, Superdrug, Morrisons and Well pharmacies, as well as independent pharmacies across the UK, Safe Spaces see pharmacy consultations rooms made available to those experiencing domestic abuse as a place where they can find specialist support information and can contact a support worker or loved one. Since their introduction during the first COVID-19 lockdown last year, it is estimated that one in four pharmacies are now running a Safe Space.
The vital role Safe Spaces play in helping those who are suffering domestic abuse is one of the focuses of NO MORE Week. Coinciding with International Women’s Day on 8 March, NO MORE Week runs from 7 until 13 March, and seeks to raise awareness internationally of domestic abuse and sexual violence.
As Vice-Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Perpetrators of Domestic Abuse, Mr Merriman has been working with the Government to ensure that tackling domestic abuse is a priority.
Commenting, Mr Merriman said:
“Safe Spaces are a lifeline for those who are suffering from domestic abuse. If you are experiencing domestic abuse, you can use a Safe Space to seek help from support services, a helpline or a loved one. Boots, Superdrug, Morrisons and Well pharmacies, as well as many independent pharmacies, all offer this vital service.
“For further information about Safe Spaces and where they are located in our constituency, you can visit: https://uksaysnomore.org/safespaces.”
The landmark Domestic Abuse Bill currently going through Parliament will provide the first ever statutory definition of domestic abuse, and will place a duty on local authorities in England to provide support to victims of domestic abuse and their children in refuges and other safe accommodation. The recent Budget allocated £19million to tackle domestic abuse, with £4million being invested in trialling a network of ‘Respite Rooms’ across England to provide specialist support for homeless women facing severe disadvantage.
