Digital spaces should be safe for everyone - 1 in 3 women report experiencing online harassment.

For another year in a row, BCHG is taking part in raising awareness for 16 Days of Activism – we’re campaigning for the elimination of violence against women and girls.

BCHG is committed to tackling domestic abuse in our communities, and this year gained a silver DAHA accreditation.

This year, we’re shining a light on digital abuse because it doesn’t stop at the door; it follows survivors into their digital lives.

What do we mean when we say digital or online abuse?

Digital abuse is a form of domestic abuse and can look like:

  • Constant messaging or monitoring
  • Sharing intimate images without consent
  • Tracking your location
  • Controlling your online accounts, including banking and bills

To highlight the severity of digital abuse, we’re sharing the following scenario:

*Sarah had recently left an abusive relationship and moved into a safe location. However, her ex-partner continued to harass her online. He accessed her social media accounts because she had reused old passwords and had location services enabled on her phone. This allowed him to track her movements and send threatening messages.

To protect herself from further digital abuse, Sarah has to:

  • Change all passwords immediately after leaving an abusive situation.
  • Enable two-factor authentication on all accounts.
  • Turn off location sharing on devices and apps.
  • Be cautious about posting personal information or photos online.
  • Seek advice from support services on digital safety measures.

You can find out more information about digital safety via this online tool from Refuge: Digital Breakup

If you’re a resident in one of our properties and feel unsafe in your home, please contact us on youmatter@bchg.co.uk or get in touch with your Customer Relations Manager or Scheme Manager.

If you aren’t a BCHG resident, but live in the Black Country – you can find support through Black Country Women’s Aid, The Haven in Wolverhampton and Sikh Women’s Aid. You can find more support listed on our page.