With calls to Refuge’s National Domestic Abuse Helpline rocketing by 66 per cent since lockdown, and visits to its website rising ten-fold, the charity have launched an impactful short film to highlight the services they offer.
Award-winning actress Maxine Peake stars in the film, recorded over Zoom, alongside award-winning TV, film and stage actor, Lex Shrapnel, in Surfaces, which is available to view on the Refuge website, and through its YouTube channel.
In the 11-minute story directed by Steve Reeves, Peake and Shrapnel play Alix and Richard. The married couple in their 40s started a whirlwind romance five years ago, which quickly descended into physical and mental abuse towards Alix.
As the story unfolds, we understand that Alix has lived her marriage to Richard in lockdown – isolated and in fear. Ironically, it is the COVID lockdown and her one hour of exercise that provides her with the opportunity she needs to escape to a refuge. Alix has finally found safety and expert support, and is taking the first steps to rebuilding her life free from violence and abuse.
On the launch of Surfaces, Sandra Horley CBE, Chief Executive of Refuge said, ‘This short film is a stark reminder of what lockdown has been like, and continues to be like, for victims of domestic abuse. As restrictions slowly lift and an end to lockdown is in sight, it’s important to remember women across the country will continue to experience abuse.
‘Refuge is here around the clock, providing specialist, confidential, non-judgmental support. If, like Alix, you are frightened of your partner, reach out and contact us.’
Maxine added: ‘It’s an unnerving watch, but I hope that the issues brought up in the emotive film not only raise awareness of the frightening reality facing those that live with a perpetrator, but also help them to realise that they aren’t alone.
‘Hearing the numbers of how many people are experiencing domestic violence in their own homes each year is terribly upsetting, not least to think that this has only been compounded by the lockdown conditions our country is facing. However, it’s absolutely crucial for those living in fear to know that Refuge and its services are available wherever, and whenever, to support them to escape domestic violence and rebuild their lives.’
Refuge is calling on anyone worried about a loved one, or about isolating with a perpetrator, to call its National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 2000 247 or contact the Helpline via Refuge’s contact form at www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk****. In an emergency, always be ready to call 999.
READ MORE: The Domestic Violence Death Toll ‘Doubles’ During Coronavirus Lockdown