A campaign to raise awareness of domestic abuse and stalking is taking place across Wiltshire.

The campaign, 16 Days of Action, will see organisations in Wiltshire and Swindon join forces to highlight the signs of domestic abuse and stalking and how people can help if they suspect something is wrong.

The campaign, which began this week, will see Wiltshire Council, Swindon Borough Council, Wiltshire Police, the Office of Police and Crime Commissioner, and several domestic abuse support services, including FearFree and Swindon Women's Aid, join forces.

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These organisations will share information and case studies on social media to help those who suspect they, or someone they know, are the victims of domestic abuse or stalking.

There will also be events across the county, including a White Ribbon event in Swindon and information stands at Chippenham and Swindon Christmas markets.

Debbie Beadle, chief executive of FearFree, said: "Stalking is an insidious form of abuse that has a devastating impact on people’s lives.

"For the 16 Days of Action, we are focused on raising awareness and making sure that anyone affected knows that there is help available."

A spokesperson for the Swindon Paragon Domestic Abuse Service added: "Stalking is not flattering or romantic, it is abusive and frightening and leaves victims feeling isolated and looking over their shoulders."

Philip Wilkinson, Wiltshire Police and Crime Commissioner, said: "One in seven people in England has been a victim of stalking at least once, which means that we have more than 100,000 victims of stalking in Wiltshire and Swindon.

"It’s far more common than residents realise, especially with the use of digital devices."

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DCI Lucy Thorne, Wiltshire Police VAWG Lead, said: "Monday marks the first day of 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, which is an international campaign and a call to action to challenge the threat of violence against women and girls."

Emma Bushell, Deputy Leader of Swindon Borough Council, said: "Violence against women and girls, domestic abuse, and stalking are issues that affect many lives, often in silence."

Cllr Ian Blair-Pilling, Wiltshire Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health, said: "Anyone can be a victim of domestic abuse or stalking and the signs aren’t always obvious.

"We all have a role to play in being there for people who are victims of domestic abuse and stalking."

People experiencing domestic abuse in Wiltshire can contact FearFree on 01225 775276 or email spa@fearfree.org.uk.

In Swindon, the Swindon Paragon Integrated Domestic Abuse Service can be reached on their 24-hour helpline at 01793 610610.

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