31 March 2020
Domestic Abuse – You are not alone
Tackling domestic abuse is an issue we take very seriously in Hounslow. It is important to be aware that people may be particularly at-risk during coronavirus lockdown.
During lockdown people experiencing domestic abuse will be at home more with an abusive partner or family member. Keeping in touch with a friend, family member, neighbour or colleague that you’re worried about during this time can help. You might not be able to visit them, but can stay in contact with people by telephone, email, text or video call. Signs that someone you know may be experiencing domestic abuse are; feeling afraid of a partner or family member, shouting, threats, physical violence, monitoring emails, calls or text messages.
The council has produced a leaflet which provides contact numbers for support services and safety advice for people experiencing domestic abuse during lockdown. If you, or someone you know, is in an abusive relationship please see the leaflet here, download it if you can. If you know someone who might benefit from this information, try and find a safe time to talk to them about it when their abusive partner or family member is not around.
It is known from other countries such as China and France, that during lockdown, domestic abuse increases. The Council is working very closely with the Police and other agencies to support people experiencing domestic abuse during lockdown. Our specialist domestic and sexual violence service for Hounslow is still open (they can be contacted on 07810 031780 Mon-Fri 9am-5pm) and we have developed new ways of working to support people experiencing domestic abuse during the Coronavirus pandemic.
So, whilst staying at home helps stop the spread of coronavirus, home isn’t always a safe place. The government has confirmed that anyone who is at risk, or experiencing domestic abuse, is still able to leave their home and seek support. Refuges remain open, people experiencing domestic abuse can still call support services and the police for assistance.
If you or anyone you know is in danger, please call 999.
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Support for West Mids NHS staff
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Thanks to the Covid19 Rapid Response Fund set up by the hospital charity CW+, supporting the West Middlesex Hospital in Isleworth, Energy Pods have been installed in the hospital’s Greenhaven indoor garden, where staff can get much-needed rest between shifts.
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Meanwhile NHS staff on their way to and from work at the hospital can't have failed to notice this wonderful tribute from the children attending Isleworth Town School (directly opposite) this week #thankyouNHS |
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Construction sites
The construction industry plays a very important role in supporting public services, delivering vital housing and infrastructure and ensuring public safety. As with other sectors, it is important that work only continues at this time if it can be done in a safe way and that it is consistent with the latest Government guidance to employers on reducing the spread of coronavirus, including where possible, maintaining a two-metre distance from others and washing their hands regularly.
If you are concerned about any particular construction site or business operating in the borough which you feel is not respecting the Government’s public health guidance, please report it to us by clicking on the link below.
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New source of support for businesses
This is a challenging time for London businesses in any sector. To help guide businesses through the uncertainty, the London Growth Hub has launched a new portal to support businesses and employers
This helpful portal includes a checklist outlining what steps businesses should take to reduce their risk of exposure to coronavirus, as well as how to prepare for future disruption.
Want to help out those in need?
Are you looking for local ways to help others, look no further - there are many ways you can help us right now to make a real difference to those who are in need.
There’s a list of things you can do on our website and we’ve created a simple form to fill out, after which the Council and its voluntary and community partners will advise on how best you can support the Hounslow effort.
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Staying active at home
We're all now spending a lot more time at home, which is why staying as physically active as possible is more important than ever. Not only does it benefit our physical health it can be great for our mental health too and there are many activities you can do, even in the comfort of your own home. Each day you can still go outside for one form of exercise, such as a walk, a run or a cycle, if you're well enough and as long as you’re on your own, or with members of your household.
The OneYouHounslow service will continue to provide advice and support to keep us all active and healthy at home.
Please always follow the latest official advice on social distancing - which means staying more than two metres from others - and follow the advice on general hygiene. Don’t touch your face and make sure you wash your hands as soon as you get in!
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Online resources for health, education and wellbeing
Lessons led by celebrities - Home schooling is about to be a lot more fun, with a host of fun-filled sessions led by celebrities such as Joe Wicks and David Walliams
BBC Bitesize - In April there will be daily content that supports education and wellbeing for pupils from primary to post 16 education.
Latest information and advice
If you think you know someone who’d like to receive this e-newsletter, forward it on and they can subscribe here.
The Council has a coronavirus advice webpage which is updated daily with the latest local information for residents and businesses.
You can also follow us on social media using the links below.
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