Last week the Government announced that the emergency lockdown measures being placed on us all will be extended by at least a further three weeks. I know it is hard but people in our area are stepping up to the challenge wonderfully. During my regular teleconference with the Chief of Sussex Police, Giles York, and our Police and Crime Commissioner, Katy Bourne, I was very pleased to hear that people are, by and large, following Government advice and overall crime is down by 20-30 per cent across Sussex. So, thank you to everyone doing their bit!
Of course, not all crime is reducing. Sadly, for some people following the Government advice can increase their risk of danger; with domestic abuse cases on the rise. If you are suffering you do not need to stay at home. Help is available to support you; the Government have invested £2 million to immediately bolster domestic abuse helplines and online support. If you need help, call the National Domestic Abuse Helpline run by the charity Refuge on 0808 2000 247 or go online to www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk
The Police are on hand to help too. They have put in place local resolution teams who can meet you in person or via video messaging. They will also be running an awareness campaign to signpost people to support.
Locally, we have a brilliant charity called My Sister’s House, run by Julie Budge, which I visited last year. They run a host of services for women, including help with domestic abuse. I have put all their helplines, on my website along with national support and information: www.gilliankeegan.com/coronavirus-domesticabusesupport
As always, if you need urgent help please dial 999. You can use the Silent Solutions Service with a mobile phone by then dialling 55; this informs the operator that you are unable to talk openly, and they will try to communicate using yes or no questions.
Sussex Police are doing a brilliant job at maintaining law and order, whilst also being on the front line in the fight against the coronavirus. They have responded proportionally to this virus encouraging people to stay home. There are always one or two who disobey the rules and the police have been using their new enforcement powers where necessary. Since the 9th April, 181 fines have been given out for infractions such as unnecessary travel or gathering in groups. I am told a significant proportion of the fines were given to people from outside our area.
I know everyone across the Chichester District will want to join me in thanking our boys and girls in blue for everything they are doing.
