Self isolation and COVID-19

During self-isolation, you may find yourself at home with an abusive partner, and without access to your usual supports
There are a number of things you can do to try and keep safe
It’s also important for people to keep in touch with their friends or family members who may be in an unsafe position
1800RESPECT has highly trained and qualified counsellors available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, via 1800 737 732 or the online chat.

Safety planning tips

Contact 1800RESPECT by calling 1800 737 732 or via the online chat when it is safe to do so. Our counsellors are experienced in dealing with situations where the person using violence is still in the house, and will work with you on a safety plan
Identify safe areas of the house where there are less dangerous items and may be ways to escape if possible
Have a phone charged and accessible, with stored important numbers, and a back up phone if possible
Call 000 at any time if you are in immediate danger, and teach your children how to call 000 if you are unable to do so. You will have to notify the police if there are COVID19 concerns at your home
Let trusted friends and neighbours know of your situation and develop a plan (this might include a code word or visual signal if you need help)
Make a habit of backing into the driveway and keeping the car fueled
Look through our Escape Bag checklist and make a note of things you may need to take with you (for example, phone and charger, keys, important documents, key card or cash)
Download the Sunny or Daisy apps for more information about safety planning and services in your area.

Supporting someone impacted by domestic violence

Read through the 1800RESPECT website for information about different types of abuse, and how to recognise the signs of domestic violence, and how to support someone you know. Some key things to remember during this time are to:

Believe them and take their fears seriously
Never blame the person experiencing violence for what has happened to them
Don’t make excuses for the person who has hurt them
Support them whenever they need to talk
Be part of their safety plan: know the code words or signals if they need to escape
Help in practical ways, for example by providing them with transport, a phone or a place to escape to
Call 000 at any time if they are in immediate danger.

If you are in a support role and would like more information or support, you are welcome to contact 1800RESPECT at any time by phone or webchat.

For COVID-19 information and support for people with disability or help booking a COVID-19 Vaccine contact the Disability Gateway.

Next steps

Violence and abuse

Violence and abuse can happen in any kind of relationship. There are different types of abuse, and they are not always physical.

Safety planning

Safety planning is thinking about things you can do to be safer when living with violence or abuse.

Contacting 1800RESPECT Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently asked questions about 1800RESPECT, including what happens when you call, privacy information and how to lodge a complaint.