Staying inside during the national lockdown is particularly difficult, and even dangerous, for those who do not feel safe in their own homes.
As part of their work in the community during the coronavirus pandemic, Premier League clubs are supporting the #YouAreNotAlone campaign against domestic abuse.
Chelsea have teamed up with the charity Refuge, raising awareness and funds to help women and children at risk, with the club matching all donations received over a six-week period.
"Domestic violence is such a serious issue in society and we must double our efforts to look after those in danger during this ongoing pandemic," Chelsea captain Cesar Azpilicueta told the club's official website.
AFC Bournemouth’s squad have made a donation to Bournemouth Churches Housing Association, who have two refuges for people escaping domestic abuse, which currently house 36 families.
"We are aware that figures relating to domestic abuse have surged since the country went into lockdown, so these safe houses and support services are more important than ever," Cherries captain Simon Francis told the club's official website.
Supportive messages
Brighton & Hove Albion players and staff, including head coach Graham Potter, have recorded video messages to let people who feel at risk know they are not alone, and to highlight key pieces of information.
This includes the fact that the Government instruction to remain at home during the pandemic does not apply if someone needs to leave their home to escape domestic abuse.
💙 All forms of domestic abuse are not acceptable in any situation.#YouAreNotAlone#BHAFC 🔵⚪️ pic.twitter.com/qPPXrdsRrk
— Brighton & Hove Albion (at 🏡) (@OfficialBHAFC) April 27, 2020
Crystal Palace's Christian Benteke has also recorded a message.
Thanks to @chrisbenteke for helping to raise awareness of domestic violence.#YouAreNotAlone
— Palace for Life Fdn. (@PalaceForLife) May 12, 2020
Find out more @yourcroydon @CPFC 👉 https://t.co/6HgUxKb67k pic.twitter.com/EjuoWxi3XV
Norwich City’s safeguarding team are continuing to work with partner agencies to ensure support can be accessed, while the Canaries are also delivering food parcels to domestic-abuse charities to assist victims.
Burnley and Tottenham Hotspur have shown their support for the campaign, too.
If you, or anyone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, you can leave your home to seek refuge.
— Burnley FC (@BurnleyOfficial) April 29, 2020
If you are in danger, call 999 then press 55 if you are unable to talk & you will be put through to the police.
At home should not mean at risk - we support you. #YouAreNotAlone pic.twitter.com/MvIkooFyFy
#YouAreNotAlone 💙
— Tottenham Hotspur (at 🏡) (@SpursOfficial) April 21, 2020
There is #NoExcuseForAbuse. Let’s look after each other.
If you, or anyone you know is at risk of, or experiencing domestic abuse, you can leave your home to seek refuge. The police will respond to your calls and support services remain available.
In addition, the safeguarding leads at Premier League clubs and their community organisations participated in online sessions this month held by the League aimed at supporting their domestic abuse procedures and support measures during and beyond the COVID-19 pandemic.
How to get help
If you are being abused or believe you are being abused, or worried you may commit domestic abuse, you can find Government support and guidance here.
Refuge runs the National Domestic Abuse Helpline, which people in the UK can call for free and in confidence 24 hours a day on 0808 2000 247.
If you are in immediate danger, call 999 and ask for the police, who will continue to respond to emergency calls.