Domestic abuse victims will be able to use codewords with shop workers to alert them to danger

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DOMESTIC abuse victims will be able to use codewords with shop workers to alert them to danger under plans being unveiled today.

Boris Johnson will spearhead the new scheme to help people suffering from domestic abuse during the coronavirus lockdown.

Shop workers will be trained in codewords to help domestic abuse victims

The PM will host a virtual Hidden Harms Summit in Downing Street today to raise awareness of the new scheme to tackle domestic abuse, sexual abuse, child sexual exploitation and modern slavery.

An extra £10 million is being given to the National Crime Agency’s taskforce to tackle paedophiles operating on the dark web and a further £3.36 million has been allocated to projects to the understand the threat posed by the most serious criminals.

The new scheme will train supermarket workers to identify and help domestic abuse victims during the pandemic through a codeword system.

Victims Commissioner Dame Vera Baird said going shopping was one of few “channels of escape” for victims.

Mr Johnson said: “I am acutely aware that for some people home is not a safe space, and that coronavirus has brought with it additional dangers.

“Just as I am committed to tackling the virus, we have to support the most vulnerable and keep them safe from harm and exploitation.

“That is why it is vital that we come together and bring all our collective expertise to ensure we are doing everything we can to support those at risk, and to help them rebuild their lives.”

Home Secretary Priti Patel said: “While the necessary social distancing guidelines are keeping the majority of us safe, they are amplifying danger for others. Protecting vulnerable people from the most sickening crimes such as child sexual abuse and domestic abuse has been my priority since the very start of this crisis.

“This summit will enable us, along with experts from the public and private sectors, to develop an action plan to protect victims as we seek to rebuild society.”

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