A charity believes the number of women being domestically abused will “escalate” during the coronavirus lockdown - with thousands of incidents already reported in Hertfordshire last year.

Watford Women’s Centre warned that perpetrators may have more “free rein” during the isolation period, with mental control and physical abuse against women likely to rise.

The latest Home Office data shows Hertfordshire Constabulary recorded 9,282 domestic abuse-related incidents between April 2018 and March 2019.

Alison Thomas, services coordinator at Watford Women’s Centre, said that during the lockdown women may find it “difficult” and be less likely to access support.

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She said that so far the charity has received less calls than normal over domestic abuse.

“But I expect us to be flooded with calls from woman saying what has happened following the lockdown,” Mrs Thomas said.

“The lockdown is going to make it more difficult for women to speak to someone in confidence because there will be other people in the house.

“The reality is that with women in close contact to someone who may be abusive, then obviously there is going to be an increase in domestic abuse.

“I absolutely do believe that the number of domestic abuse cases against women will escalate during the lockdown.”

Mrs Thomas also warned that women could “put up” with injuries they may receive and leave them untreated, impacting their wellbeing and mental health.

She added: “This will give women a feeling of less support and options.

“People being physically abused is likely to escalate because they are in close contact with the abuser and won’t get a break.

“With other people in the house mental control is also a lot more likely.”

Mrs Thomas urged victims to follow advice from SafeLives, which has put a document online guiding victims and survivors of domestic abuse.

It says: “We know that if you are currently experiencing or have experienced domestic abuse you will know what being isolated and frightened will feel like.

“You might be worried about self-isolating with someone who is harming you.

“We’ve created this to help you think about what you might do over the coming weeks to stay safe. You are not alone in this. You are a survivor, equipped with the knowledge, strength and tools that help keep you and your family safe every day.”

To read the guidance click here.