SADLY, one of the evils that accompany lockdown is the skyrocketing of domestic abuse.

According to the Office of National Statistics (ONS), one in five recorded crimes are domestic abuse related - and that is just the ones reported (on average, only 18% of domestic abuse crimes were reported)!

The lack of opportunities for people to go out and meet friends means they have decreased opportunities to seek help.

But remember you are not alone; and it is completely LEGAL to leave your home to escape harm, including domestic abuse and seek help.

Domestic abuse is not just physical violence.

Not all abuse involves physical bruises and scars (although that does NOT in any way diminish how serious those signs of domestic abuse are).

By law, psychological abuse, such as intimidation, financial control, taking intimate photos and videos and posting them without consent (revenge porn) are also classed as domestic abuse.

The Liberal Democrat Lords have recently tabled fresh amendments to the Domestic Abuse Bill which introduces important measures to help raise awareness of domestic abuse and providing additional support to domestic abuse victims, while also helping to challenge perpetrator's behaviour.

Measures in the Bill seek to transform the justice response, for example by preventing the cross-examination of victims in family court proceedings by the abuser.

People trapped in abusive relationships should be offered financial help by the Government to help them escape under measures put forward by the Liberal Democrats recently.

Lib Dem MP Christine Jardine said: "Too often survivors of abuse are trapped simply because they cannot afford to leave."

If you are experiencing domestic abuse, you do not have to suffer in silence.

Here are some ways you can get help:

â— The National Domestic Violence Helpline 0808 2000 247 (helpline open 24 hours a day)

â— "Ask for Ani": you can say the phrase to get help discreetly in Boots stores

Your Liberal Democrat councillors are also ready to help you in a discreet and confidential manner.

We are contactable by email or phone and usually respond within hours, and will help you seek alternative accommodation or other forms of assistance.

Please email [email protected], call or text 07813205218.

In these difficult times, we must look out for each other.

If you witness warning signs, please do not turn a blind eye.

You can report suspected abusers anonymously via Crimestoppers (they will not record your name or details).

Crimestoppers state that obvious warning signs include:

- Bruising or visible marks

- Noises that furniture are smashed

If you believe someone is in immediate danger, please call 999.

By looking out for each other, you might just save a life.

And to those who are suffering; remember you are not alone.

There is help out there.