This Morning calls police as domestic abuse victim rings in and begs for help

Today on This Morning Eamonn Holmes and Ruth Langsford covered the subject of domestic abuse – something that’s even more important to talk about since lockdown.

They were joined by Deirdre Sanders, who was there to help people with any problems they are experiencing during the coronavirus pandemic.

At one point a caller named Louise got in touch to say that her ex had been tormenting her, adding that she ‘was at her wit’s end’.

ITV

Louise – which isn’t her real name – told Deirdre: “I escaped severe domestic violence a few years back. However, my ex makes us suffer and said he wouldn’t give up until I was dead, etc.

“He no longer hurts us physically, thankfully. However he continues his threats by holding the purse strings, withholding money. I’m on very limited benefits with two children, one who’s disabled.

“I have a court order which he’d refused to pay. I’ve spoken to the police over mental abuse but they won’t entertain it. I’ve tried to get legal aid, I can’t get legal aid. I have been supported by a couple of domestic abuse people in the area.

“I’m at my wits’ end to get somebody to help me to stop this man and I can’t get anyone to do it.”

Deirde replied by saying: “I think we are having to go back to his and get on to the police. He’s breaking the law, he’s breaking a court order. It’s totally wrong what he’s doing.

“It’s a question of enforcement. Do try again with the police, it’s just so clear-cut that they should be helping you.”

Ruth then stepped in, informing Louise the This Morning team would call the police, saying: “Our team, I’m just being told, our team will get onto the police, with Deirdre as well. We will be helping you.

“These are very difficult calls – you can’t always call people back. By calling in to the programme you’ve made the first step and we will try to help you.”

We hope Louise gets the help she needs. If you ever find yourself in a similar situation, you can call Refuge’s freephone, 24-hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 2000 247.  Remember, you’re not on your own.