Domestic Violence Calls Up 40 Percent In Somerset County
SOMERSET COUNTY, NJ — Just as sadly predicted, Safe+Sound Somerset has been seeing a large increase in calls for help related to domestic violence since the coronavirus pandemic began in March.
"We have been very busy. Our services are still in high demand. Our hotline call and text have experienced a 40 percent increase since March," said Jessica Skultety, Safe+Sound community outreach associate. "That coincides with what we were saying in March. We are still seeing an increase in not just domestic violence but in services. This is not just Somerset County either, this is worldwide."
Safe+Sound Somerset offers a 24-hour hotline at 866-685-1122 that is fully staffed, with English and Spanish speakers, for those in need.
Additionally, the number of people being referred to a counseling program from the hotline has increased 25 percent since 2019. There were also twice as many referrals for counseling this November than last November, said Skultety.
"This is really telling again. Domestic abuse was already a public health crisis and COVID is making it even worse," said Skultety.
Skultety points to people being stuck at home due to many jobs or schooling going virtual due to the pandemic.
"Often clients are already experiencing abuse and are now stuck in the home. They do not have their normal outlets of going to school or work. In the past, people could get away, if you will, for the day or a few hours," said Skultety. "The fact is they are stuck in the home with their family which creates an even more tense atmosphere and increases the intensity of violence."
The impact of the virus financially is also contributing to the increase in calls.
"There is no end to this virus yet, even with reports of the vaccine. With the economic frustration, sometimes partners take it out on their partners. More and more people are getting to that point making it unsafe," said Skultety.
Victims may also be afraid to leave the home or to find a safe place due to fears of possibly getting the virus, said Skultety.
As a result, Safe+Sound Somerset has added three programs, emergency safe house services, tele-counseling, virtual legal services, and virtual classes to learn about the warning signs of domestic violence.
Although there is limited capacity at the emergency safe houses, Skultety said they are doing the best they can to keep people safe.
"The demand for shelters has doubled and tripled in parts of the state," said Skultety.
Due to the increase in demand for services, Safe+Sound Somerset is in need of donations. Gift cards are welcome to give to families in need and monetary donations to help fund programs.
For more information on Safe+Sound Somerset, to donate, or to learn about free virtual classes visit safe-sound.org.
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This article originally appeared on the Hillsborough Patch
