A local charity has said that “every voice matters” in a domestic abuse survey which is being publicised by Wiltshire Council.  

The council is running the survey to gather the views of people who have experienced domestic abuse across Wiltshire.

Claire Marshall, the CEO of FearFree, a charity that works across the south west of England, noted that the perspectives shared will be used to inform how they support those impacted by abuse in the future.

She said: “Understanding the experiences of survivors and listening to their feedback is at the heart of creating safe, protective, and robust domestic abuse support services.

“This survey gives people across Wiltshire the opportunity to have their voice heard and provides us with an additional layer of information to the feedback that is already collected.

“Many of our service users tell us that they contribute to surveys like this to help other people who are in abusive relationships and ensure that there is the right support available for them.”

She added: “Measures have been put in place to safeguard respondents for example the survey is anonymous and confidential.

“It also contains trigger warnings and signposts to FearFree.”

She concluded: “The feedback from this survey will help us and our partners to ensure we continue to provide the best possible care to people impacted by abuse. 

“Every voice matters, and your perspective will be used to inform how we support people in the future.“

In December 2023, FearFree reported that referrals in Wiltshire remain drastically above pre-pandemic levels.

The survey is open until Friday, May 31 and can be completed online.

Alternatively, paper copies can be collected at libraries across the county.

The results of the survey will shape the local Domestic Abuse Strategy.

Councillor Ian Blair-Pilling, Cabinet Member for Public Health at Wiltshire Council, said: “We understand that domestic abuse is a sensitive and difficult topic for many, and we really appreciate those who are willing to share their experience to inform future services. 

“As part of our business plan, safeguarding our residents from harm is a high priority of ours and we work to ensure that there is plenty of support and advice available.”

For support around domestic abuse, people can call FearFree on 01225 775276 or they can email spa@fearfree.org.uk. 

Outside of office hours and on weekends, people can call 01225 712880.