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A new public awareness campaign aimed at helping domestic abuse sufferers has been launched by the by the Home Secretary today.

The #YouAreNotAlone initiative will aim to reassure domestic abuse sufferers that support is available during the coronavirus lockdown.

Members of the public have been asked to show solidarity for abuse victims by sharing a photo of a heart on their palm, and asking others to do the same.

It is hoped that the campaign will show victims that they are not alone and to convey to perpetrators that domestic abuse is unacceptable in any circumstances.

The campaign will be publicising support available including the freephone, 24 hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline number – 0808 2000 247 – run by Refuge.

(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

From next week, adverts raising awareness of where people can seek help will run across social media and materials will be made available in charities and supermarkets.

Additionally, the Home Secretary will announce that the Home Office is working with charities and the Domestic Abuse Commissioner to provide an additional £2 million to immediately bolster domestic abuse helplines and online support.

Charities have reported a surge in activity since the social distancing guidelines came into force, so the funding will help to ensure that all victims can access vital support safely and securely.

Tools such as online support services, including a messaging service with domestic abuse experts, will help those most at risk of abuse.

This follows Chancellor Rishi Sunak ’s £750m boost to the charity sector, which will benefit domestic abuse charities, to support the most vulnerable in our society.

This £750m funding will support charities providing key services and supporting vulnerable people during the Covid-19 crisis.

Domestic abuse charities are being urged to bid when the new scheme is up and running in the coming weeks.

Home Secretary Priti Patel is expected to say:

“ Coronavirus has opened Britain’s enormous heart and shown our love and compassion for one another as we come together to help those most in need.

“I am now asking this nation to use that amazing compassion and community spirit to embrace those trapped in the horrific cycle of abuse.

(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

“And to help us all look out for those who need help, we have created a symbol of hope – a handprint with a heart on – so that people can easily show that we will not tolerate abuse as a society, and that we stand in solidarity with victims of domestic abuse.

“I would urge everyone to share it on social media or in the windows of your home, alongside a link to the support available, to demonstrate just how much this country cares.

“And to show victims of domestic abuse: you are not alone.”

Sandra Horley, CBE, chief executive of national domestic abuse charity Refuge said:

“Refuge is grateful for the Government’s support at this critical time. We have worked around the clock to ensure our national helpline and frontline specialist services remain open and accessible to women experiencing domestic abuse.

“What is needed now, more than ever, is to ensure every woman experiencing domestic abuse is aware of the confidential support available.

“We hope the Government’s campaign will reach the tens of thousands of people experiencing domestic abuse, helping send the message - you are not alone.”