NDADA Launch An Industry Leading Live Text Talk Service

North Devon Against Domestic Abuse (NDADA) has just launched an industry-leading new Live Text Talk service. The free-to-use and easily accessible service aims to provide real-time advice and help for those experiencing domestic violence in a discreet way which does not put them at further risk. 

Across the world, cases of domestic violence have risen sharply during the Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns. Women and children fleeing domestic violence have requested the help of NDADA, Devon’s only refuge, in significant numbers throughout the pandemic. The innovative new Live Text Talk service will put those in need in touch with a trained member of the NDADA team via a 1-2-1 live text service.

It’s a valuable tool helping people reach out for assistance because it can be accessed on the NDADA website. The service only requires texting instead of talking and will operate daily between 8pm and 10pm, Monday – Friday. It is not an emergency service and those in danger still need to call 999.

NDADA Create Innovative Lifeline

NDADA CEO Sue Wallis said:

‘We’ve seen a huge uptake in requests for help during lockdown. Creating this innovative solution was our way of reaching out to those who’ve needed help and advice, but in a confidential manner and at times that may be useful once children are in bed.

‘People can use the service on a PC, laptop, tablet or even a phone, so it’s possible for people to find help in ways that don’t require talking openly on the phone. We hope it’ll be another lifeline for those in a very difficult situation in a very difficult time.’

Although NDADA runs Devon’s only refuge for women and children fleeing domestic violence, it receives no dedicated government funding. In April, the charity launched a Covid-19 Emergency Appeal to raise vital funds to support those in danger during lockdown. Nearly 200 people have supported the campaign so far and donated £5,400 (54% of the £10,000 target). The campaign is still live with donations helping support the charity to utilise innovative ways to help those in danger.

Please support the Just Giving page here: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/NDADA-Covid/