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Labour is calling on the government to provide emergency funding for domestic abuse charities during the coronavirus crisis.
The party has outlined a set of proposals to bolster charities that support the victims of domestic abuse.
It comes after the National Domestic Abuse helpline has seen a 25pc increase in calls during lockdown.
Locally, Greater Manchester's deputy mayor Bev Hughes has called for 'stronger cross-government action to protect the hidden victims of domestic abuse during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond'.
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Since the lockdown began, police other services in across the region haven't yet seen an anticipated increase in domestic abuse calls or referrals - leading to concerns that victims may be trapped at home with their abusers with no way to ask for help.
Extra emergency accommodation places have been secured for women fleeing domestic abuse in Greater Manchester during the lockdown.
Labour say their proposals would ensure:
- A dedicated proportion of 10pc (£75m) of the £750m charity support announced by the Chancellor to be ring-fenced for domestic abuse charities
- A system is put in place to fast track investment to the frontline, before charities have to close their door due to being oversubscribed or unable to pay their staff
- An element of this support is earmarked for specialist services, such as men who are at risk of domestic abuse and specialist LGBTQ services.
© MENBev Hughes
Nick Thomas-Symonds, Shadow Home Secretary, said: "It is clear that domestic abuse is increasing rapidly during the lockdown and we need the government to act urgently to support front line services.
"Our society must not turn its back on some of the most at risk people in this crisis, too much time has already been lost and action is needed now.
"Labour's plan would deliver £75m to the frontline rapidly, to help keep women and children safe from abuse.
"Labour will act as a responsible opposition, but the government have to move faster to get funding and support to the frontline, before vital services are forced to turn people away.
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"That is why we are proposing that if no action is forthcoming, we will try to change the law, to guarantee fast-tracked funding to frontline, to support domestic abuse charities."
Deputy Mayor Bev Hughes said: "Having to spend most of our time at home can, for most of us, be a challenge. But for some people, home isn't even a safe place.
"In Greater Manchester, we have been working to reassure the public that the police will still respond if a person is at risk, support services are still available and accessible regardless of whether you want to speak to the police or not.
"Whilst we haven't yet seen an increase in calls for help to police or support services, we are not complacent and there is a real concern for those potentially hidden victims of domestic abuse who may not be able to reach out for help. Support which has previously been in place has changed for many, and is potentially inaccessible for some.
That's why we're closely monitoring the issue and putting measures in place to make sure victims can access support if they need it, when they need it.
"Our Greater Manchester Partnership Board will be coming together -virtually- in the next few days to make sure every area has in place the measures needed to respond to families.
"Only by working together across partner organisations and communities can we effectively tackle domestic abuse and protect victims and their families. That's our approach in Greater Manchester and it's vital that the government replicates this approach working across health, housing and education, whilst also making sure that police and support services have the resources they need to keep people safe from abuse."
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These organisations offer help and advice to people suffering domestic abuse:
Domestic Violence Helpline, free and open 24hrs - 0808 2000 247
Domestic Violence Assist, which helps obtain emergency injunctions - 0800 195 8699
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