SCOTLAND'S Domestic Abuse and Forced Marriage Helpline has created three new videos for British Sign Language users.

The service hopes to raise awareness of the support that is available to anyone experiencing domestic abuse or forced marriage.

The new videos include ‘what is domestic abuse?’, ‘what is forced marriage?’ and ‘what you can expect when you contact the helpline’.

BSL users can get in touch with the helpline confidentially using Contact Scotland BSL, a BSL video interpreting service.

Zara Gilmour, helpline manager, said: “Our helpline is for everyone in Scotland and we want to make sure that anyone experiencing domestic abuse or forced marriage knows that we are here to speak to them in the language they are most comfortable using.

“Reaching out for support can be daunting for anyone and we know that BSL users can often experience additional barriers in accessing support due to a lack of services delivered in their first language.  

“The Covid-19 pandemic has not caused domestic abuse – abuse is an abuser’s choice, always.

“However, it has given abusers more tools to control and isolate their partners and children. And that prolonged isolation and increased control has made seeking help much more difficult for survivors.

“Now more than ever it is vital that we make sure our service is as accessible as possible so that anyone who wants support can access our expert advice when and where they need it.  

“If you contact us using a BSL video interpreting service, your call will still be confidential. We will listen to you, believe you and offer you advice and information. We are here for you.” 

If you need any help, contact the helpline on 0800 027 1234 or visit contactscotland-bsl.org or sdafmh.org.uk.