Digital ID scheme could be used as 'weapon of abuse' says Plymouth campaigner

ITV News reporter Sam Blackledge looks at concerns over plans for a digital ID scheme

A domestic abuse campaigner from Plymouth is urging the Government to listen to concerns about plans for a digital ID scheme.Debbie Roche fears that forcing people to keeping personal details, such as driving licences and national insurance numbers, on their phones could expose them to further abuse and controlling behaviour.

"Those little mobile phone devices can become an extra weapon of abuse," Debbie said.

"When you think of all that data that is on there, it can open you up to financial abuse, identity theft.

If you have been impacted by any of the issues raised in this article, there is help available. Visit the support section of our website to find organisations that can help you.

"Survivors have got enough to deal with. You would want the mobile phone to be a place of security and safety, something that could be turned to in need of help."

Digital ID cards: What is the government's plan and how will they work?

The Government says digital ID will make it easier to apply for housing and childcare, to access benefits, and will stop those with no right to be in the country from finding work.

The idea is still in the consultation phase. Debbie says that must include hearing from domestic abuse victims.

"People have found a way to keep attacking, harrassing, stalking, victimising people and it is worse for domestic abuse survivors," she said. "Because out there, people still won't accept that it happens."

Plymouth's Labour MP, Luke Pollard, said: "I think digital ID will make our society safer. It will make public services more efficient, and it will bring government into the 21st century.

"But to do that, we have to take people with us. And that means correctly listening to concerns where they exist and acting on them in the legislation that is to come."

Rebecca Smith, Conservative MP for South West Devon, said: "I think they are using something that is deeply unpopular with the public, simply as a gimmick to show that they are trying to do something to bring illegal immigration down.

"It doesn't wash with us and it doesn't wash with the public. So we think they need to just stop these plans in their tracks."

Help and support available if you are a victim of domestic violence

Women's Aid - helpline@womensaid.org.uk

National Domestic Abuse Helpline - 0808 2000 247

Respect Men's Advice Line - 0808 8010 327

Galop - 0800 999 5428

Karma Nirvana - 0800 5999 247