Domestic violence a ‘priority’ for South Yorkshire Police

Deputy chief constable Mark Roberts, from the force, speaking at a public accountability board meeting via a telephone conference, said specialist officers had not been moved to other duties.

He said various contingency plans were in place if staffing levels dropped due to Covid-19 with officers having to self isolate.

Mr Roberts urged anyone in distress to call 999 and for those who cannot speak to an operator to also diall 5-5 once the call is connected. Officers will be dispatched to the scene.

The comments come as reports show a national rise in domestic violence cases due to the lockdown restrictions.

It also comes as a man was arrested on suspicion of murdering a woman who was stabbed to death in Barnsley last month.

National domestic violence helpline Refuge, which helps at risk women and children, said it had experienced a 25 per cent in calls since the lockdown was imposed.

Mr Roberts said courts were still operating and officers were still applying and monitoring domestic violence protection orders.

He said: “The officers working in the domestic abuse units are still operating - they’ve not been moved to other duties.

“We’ve planned a range of contingencies because police officers like anyone else are not immune to coronavirus - but so far we’ve fared extremely well and staff have been sensible and committed and we’re still delivering the full range of services.

“The public can be reassured that, despite the challenges, we are offering the full range of services and that includes domestic abuse.

“Even when we get to the most extreme circumstances, domestic abuse will continue to be prioritised with the available resources.

“Domestic abuse has been a significant priority for the force over the last couple of years.

“We have put significant efforts and positive action and support to vulnerable people.

“Specialist domestic violence teams will continue to monitor and prosecute offenders who breach DVPOs.”