Domestic Violence Shelters Are Receiving Prank Calls Following A Viral TikTok Trend

This article deals with domestic violence and abuse which could be triggering to some. If you, or someone you know, needs help contact 1800RESPECT.

It’s been well established that rates of domestic violence increase during times of crisis, and while the world continues to grapple with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the rise of domestic violence in Australia, whether it be emotional, physical or verbal, remains one of our countries most prevalent issues.

Now reports of a new TikTok trend has seen domestic violence shelters receive hundreds of prank calls, making it harder for real victims to reach out for help. The trend sees users record videos of themselves calling random "feminist numbers" and asking for the man in charge.

The Women's Center of Waukesha County in the US, which provides safety, shelter, and support to those impacted by domestic abuse, sexual violence, child abuse and trafficking, took to Facebook to urge people to report these videos when they see them.

"Last night we received over 100 prank calls to our 24-Hour Hotline making it difficult for advocates to respond to real crisis calls, and we have been the target of other similar calls over the last month," the organisation wrote.

"Our 24-Hour Hotline serves as a critical lifeline for victims and survivors of domestic and sexual violence. During the COVID-19 pandemic, domestic violence has significantly increased and made it much harder for victims to reach out for help due to being trapped at home with their abuser.

"In a time when victims are at high risk and any opportunity to reach out is essential, these 'pranks' are especially threatening to our work."

Angela Mancuso, executive director of The Women's Center, told Patch: "People are now calling and describing rape in graphic detail and using misogynist and transphobic slurs. So this is literal harassment now."

Facebook

While there's no reports to suggest that the trend has started in Australia, the reality for victims of domestic violence remains the same.

On average, 1 woman a week is murdered by her current or former partner in Australia, according to the National Homicide Monitoring Program report. Almost 10 women a day are hospitalised for assault injuries perpetrated by a spouse or domestic partner, per the AIHW, and in 2019 alone 3600 women hospitalised for assault injuries identified a spouse or domestic partner as the perpetrator.

And while many of us have been adapting to life at home, that reality can present a serious challenge for those living with an abusive partner or family member.

Australian Bureau of Statistics data shows that stress, unemployment, a disability or health condition, poor or fair health, and low levels of life satisfaction are all significant factors for increased partner violence, almost all of which have hit Australians in a perfect storm since the global health crisis began.

Where To Reach Out For Help:

The National Sexual Assault, Family & Domestic Violence Counselling Line – 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) – is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week for any Australian who’s experienced, or is at risk of domestic violence and/or sexual assault.

Below, 24/7 services available statewide:

South Australia:

Domestic Violence and Aboriginal Family Violence Gateway Services (1800 800 098)

Western Australia:

Women’s Domestic Violence Helpline (1800 007 339)

Tasmania:

Safe at Home Family Violence Response and Referral Line (1800 633 937)

Queensland:

DVConnect Womensline (1800 811 811)

Northern Territory:

Catherine Booth House (8981 5928)

New South Wales:

NSW Domestic Violence Line (1800 656 463 / TTY 1800 671 442)

ACT:

Domestic Violence Crisis Service (02 6280 0900)

Victoria:

Safe Steps Family Violence Response Centre (1800 015 188)

Grace Back

Grace Back is a journalist and was formerly the Digital Culture Editor across ELLE and marie claire Australia. When not stuck in a seemingly endless Instagram scroll, you'll find Grace with her head in a good book.

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This article deals with domestic violence and abuse which could be triggering to some. If you, or someone you know, needs help contact 1800RESPECT.

Where To Reach Out For Help:

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