TST update on Covid-19 and tips to get through

“I wish it need not have happened in my time," said Frodo.
"So do I," said Gandalf, "and so do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.” 

J.R.R. Tolkien, The Fellowship of the Ring

We are currently dealing with unusual and anxious times and we along with our members understand how difficult this time can be especially for those who are already dealing with the impacts from sexual violence. Many who work in the Sexual Violence sector have been affected themselves one way or another and have a passion for the work they do. With this in mind we, along with our members, are endeavouring to continue to offer services where safe and possible.

We are following updates from our Government and acting in line with the guidance and advice given. For professionals, survivors and carers we advise to refer to your own local authority to find out any information you may need about key issues i.e. access to food banks, education enquiries etc.

Due to Covid-19 many of our member organisations and other support services are closing their face to face services and operating differently in accordance with advice from the UK Government to try and ensure the safety and well-being of staff, volunteers and clients/survivors as well as the general public. Many of these changes to services will be for the foreseeable future. Please check our members own websites and social medias for updates. 

It may take longer for organisations to respond to enquiries, and some services may be provided online or over the telephone. In some cases organisations may have to make the difficult decision for all services to be suspended. Our members are ensuring that their clients and the general public are informed of the measures they are taking. 

The Survivors Trust office is closed and we are working from home to the best of our abilities. 

National helplines

The Survivors Trust: 0808 801 0181 (Open Mon-Thurs 10am-6pm | Fri 10am-2pm)

Safeline Male Survivor Helpline: 0808 800 5005 (Open Mon, Wed and Fri 9am-5pm | Tues and Thurs 8am-8pm | Sat 10am-2pm)

Rape Crisis England and Wales: 0808 802 9999 (Open 12pm-2:30pm and 7pm-9:30pm every day)

For other national helplines please click here

If you need to speak to someone urgently please contact emergency services or call the Samaritans: 116 123 (Open 24/7 every day) 

I know it can feel pointless to focus on flowers or babies when you’re depressed, but it’s important to remember that stuff exists. It’s not all bad out there, you know? There is magic happening. °˖✧*• Shop, Patreon, Books, Mailing List *•. ✧˖°`

Our mental health is just as important as our physical health. To help take your mind off the news, or if you are having to self-isolate, here are some things you can do from home. The best thing about them is that they are all free! 

Good News websites

Museums, zoos, aquariums, exhibitions, operas etc!

Keeping Fit 

Meditations 

Podcasts

Activities 

Recipes 

Tips for the family 

Books, magazines and audiobooks 

“You can recognize survivors of abuse by their courage. When silence is so very inviting, they step forward and share their truth so others know they aren't alone.” ― Jeanne McElvaney

There are uncertain times ahead but what we can be certain on is that we are still here and you are not alone.