SafeLives

In 2018, SafeLives launched an ambitious strategy to end domestic abuse, which works across the whole lifecycle of abuse, from the individual experiencing the abuse, to their family, community and the whole of society. Since then – and particularly during this last year where survivors have faced so many additional pressures as a result of COVID restrictions, SafeLives has worked relentlessly to raise awareness of abuse, keep families safe sooner, support frontline practitioners, and ensure the sustainability of the specialist domestic abuse sector. Our work has resulted in key changes to the Domestic Abuse Bill, significant additional emergency funds for frontline services, further investment in specialist domestic abuse workers, and survivor-led practical initiatives such as our Reach In campaign for friends and neighbours, and Ask for ANI, the Home Office adopted code word scheme which has already supported over 70 people to get emergency help in more than 5000 pharmacies across the UK. During this exceptionally challenging year, we’ve seen a step change in public attitudes towards domestic abuse, and a wider society and community response, with dozens of employers joining us to reach in to end domestic abuse for everyone and for good and major corporate partnerships to support survivors.