Wiltshire Council is participating in an international campaign against gender-based violence.

The aim is to raise awareness of domestic abuse and encourage people to speak up or help.  

Wiltshire Council is teaming up with Swindon Borough Council and sending out information and advice until Sunday, December 10.

Wiltshire Police are also taking part and will be explaining what steps to take if you are concerned that someone is suffering from domestic abuse.

Councillor Ian Blair-Pilling, cabinet member for public health at Wiltshire Council, said: “We all have a role to play in being there for people who are victims of domestic abuse.

“It can be difficult to know exactly what to do. You may feel awkward about asking or feel you’re intruding.

“Ultimately the person who is suffering the abuse may need those words from you or that offer of help so they can take the next step.

“We are sharing some advice on how you can offer that help to take the first steps towards leaving abuse.

“We are a community and we need to support each other. People should not suffer in silence and they do not need to be alone.”  

Claire Marshall, CEO of the charity FearFree, which provides support to people across Wiltshire, said: “This campaign aims to make sure that it’s a battle that nobody must face alone.  

“We’re asking people to take a few minutes to learn how to recognise the signs of abuse and what actions they can take to support someone.

“Something as simple as letting a colleague know there are organisations that can help them could save a life.”  

Detective Chief Inspector Gemma Vinton from Wiltshire Police said: “Domestic abuse is often hidden, and victims may feel they can’t talk about it with colleagues, friends or family members, let alone report it to us or another organisation.

"Victims can understandably have complex feelings about the perpetrator or may worry about perceptions, or the practicalities of what will happen should they tell someone what is happening to them. 

"Whatever the situation, I would urge everyone to be mindful of those around us and consider whether people may need help."

People who are experiencing domestic abuse can contact:  

Wiltshire:  

Weekdays call Fearfree 01225 775276  

Out of hours helpline 01225 712880.   

Swindon  

Swindon Domestic Abuse Support Service 24 Hour Helpline 01793 610610  

In an emergency dial 999.  

According to the latest crime survey for England and Wales, it is estimated that 5.0% of adults (6.9% women and 3.0% men) aged 16 years and over experienced domestic abuse in the year ending March 2022; this equates to an estimated 2.4 million adults (1.7 million women and 699,000 men).