For domestic abuse survivors, whether in London or elsewhere in the UK, the pandemic has highlighted and deepened the inequalities they face. Is has also shone a light on the complex links between poverty and inequality, health, discrimination and racism which must be addressed when considering how to tackle this damaging and often hidden form of violence.

Domestic abuse and violence against women and girls can affect people at any income level, yet women in poverty are far more likely to experience abuse. In addition to this, women from ethnic minority backgrounds and migrant women are the most vulnerable and at risk from domestic abuse. Research shows that survivors from Black, Asian and other ethnic communities typically suffer abuse for 1.5 times longer before getting help than those who identify as White British or Irish. Add having no recourse to public funds (NRPF) into the mix and it can become even harder to access vital support. According to Women’s Aid, only 4% of all safe accommodation spaces for survivors of abuse in 2019-20 could consider women who had NRPF.