Launch of online reporting tool for domestic abuse victims

The portal, which went live today, is available to anyone who may find it difficult to report incidents over the phone.

Supt Shelley Hemsley, force lead for domestic abuse, said the current pandemic was a time of worry and anxiety for many, but especially for victims of domestic abuse who may be spending more time in their homes with their abuser.

“We appreciate that in these circumstances, seeking help or telling someone what’s happening over the phone may be incredibly difficult to do and you might have concerns that you could be overheard, or prevented from making a call for help.

“It is in response to these concerns that we’ve created a dedicated online reporting tool for victims of domestic abuse in South Yorkshire. You can quickly access the portal via your smartphone, tablet or laptop, and give us information about what’s happening to you."

Supt Hemsley reassured victims that the information given online would not end up forgotten about in an unmonitored inbox, saying staff would monitor the reports 24/7.

"I want to stress that we will respond to that report in the same way as though you had reported it over the phone via 101," she added.

 "We will risk assess the information you have provided and you will receive an appropriate response based on what we know.

“I would, however, urge anyone in an emergency situation to please still call 999 and make use of the silent solution – press ‘55’ so our operators can listen to what is happening in the background and make a risk assessment so that the right response is sent to you.”

The online reporting tool can be accessed here.