The prevalence of domestic violence in Tamworth was bad before COVID-19, but those on the ground fear the pandemic has worsened the situation even further.
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Already, there have been around 200 more referrals to Tamworth Family Support Services (TFSS) than this time last year.
Recognising the strain of the increasing numbers, an additional $215,700 grant has been given to local domestic violence services to assist their important work.
The money will be shared between Tamworth Homelessness and Housing Support Service, Tamworth Homelessness Support Service for Men, Women and Families, Staying Home Leaving Violence Tamworth, and Tamworth Family Support Service Inc.
TFSS domestic and family violence manager Lynda Townsend said the money was "very much welcomed".
While news of the COVID-19 grant is still fresh, she said they were investigating how the money would best be used.
As our community, and in fact the nation, starts to emerge further from the lock-downs, there is a lot of talk within the domestic violence sector that it is all just going to snowball.
- Lynda Townsend
"It could be used for an extension into other areas where some services are not available ... or assist us in how we help women and children and men receive the support necessary."
At the moment, due to social isolation, Ms Townsend said referral numbers have remained "fairly stable", however expects that won't last much longer.
"As our community, and in fact the nation, starts to emerge further from the lock-downs, there is a lot of talk within the domestic violence sector that it is all just going to snowball."
Welcomed by Tamworth MP Kevin Anderson, he said having this additional layer of support was "great news for domestic violence victim-survivors across the region."
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"The pandemic has unfortunately increased the potential for domestic abuse in homes across our local communities, so we want to ensure help is available and accessible at this crucial time."
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic or family violence, contact the Domestic Violence Line on 1800 65 64 63.
