Housebuilder donation means more volunteers can help victims of domestic abuse in Hertfordshire

A helpline dedicated to people affected by domestic abuse in Hertfordshire has been received a £1,000 donation from Persimmon Homes.

Hertfordshire Domestic Abuse Helpline provides a free, confidential support and signposting service for anyone affected by domestic abuse in Hertfordshire.

Chair of the helpline, Christine Roach, said: “In the last year we received more calls and emails than ever from victims-survivors, concerned friends, family members and professionals who have victims with them.

“Our trained call takers listen carefully to what callers disclose and then signpost to some of around 170 Hertfordshire-based organisations depending on their individual needs. The caller is thus empowered to take the next step.

“It is accepted nationally that the Covid pandemic has had a serious impact on victims of domestic abuse, who have been suffering more coercive and controlling behaviour.

"Calls and emails to our service have risen by 12 per cent over the last year to a record 2,300. We have also seen a 33 per cent increase in visitors to our website.

“In order to deal with this increase in demand, we have been training more volunteers as call takers, as well as adding additional hours to make sure callers are able to reach on their first attempt.

“Persimmon Homes’ donation will allow us to do this, and we are extremely grateful. Not only will the £1,000 donation help us cover increased costs but it will get us well underway in more online training.”

Rachel Faulkner, sales director of Persimmon Homes North London, said: “The application from Hertfordshire Domestic Abuse Helpline reminds us of the struggles that individuals are still facing and even more so as result of recent lockdowns. We are delighted that we can help with funding.

“Supporting each other throughout these unprecedented times is so important and we are glad that we are able to provide support in our own way.”