Do you know the signs of domestic abuse and stalking? What would you do if you were concerned that you, or someone you know is a victim?
The national campaign ‘16 Days of Action’ starts on Monday 25 November and this year Wiltshire and Swindon are raising awareness of domestic abuse and stalking and how people can help if they think something isn’t right.
Wiltshire Council, Swindon Borough Council, Wiltshire Police, Office of Police and Crime Commissioner, Wiltshire’s commissioned domestic abuse support service, FearFree, Swindon’s commissioned domestic abuse support service, Swindon Paragon Domestic Abuse Service and charity Swindon Women’s Aid are all participating.
The organisations involved will be sharing information and case studies on social media on what people can do if they are concerned that they, or someone they know is a victim of domestic abuse or stalking.
Events are also taking place across the county including a White Ribbon event in Swindon on 25 November to raise awareness of violence against women and girls, and information stands at Chippenham and Swindon Christmas markets.
Debbie Beadle, CEO of FearFree, said: “Stalking is an insidious form of abuse that has a devastating impact on people’s lives. The terrifying reality is that women are far more likely to be victims of stalking, and for the 16 Days of Action we are focused on raising awareness and making sure that anyone affected knows that there is help available.
"No single organisation, community, or individual can end violence against women alone. It takes all of us – standing together to make our communities safe for women and girls. If you are experiencing domestic abuse or stalking, please reach out for help. We are here for you, and we will help you to find safety”.
Swindon Paragon Domestic Abuse Service: “Stalking is not flattering or romantic, it is abusive and frightening and leaves victims feeling isolated and looking over their shoulders. Leaving the relationship can be scary and extremely dangerous and often does not mean the end of the abuse and many perpetrators will use stalking behaviours to try to regain control. The fear follows behind closed doors, in the park and at work and leaves victims feeling vulnerable and alone.
"We hope this campaign spreads the message loud and clear that stalking is never acceptable and help and support is available. Stalking behaviour is Fixated, Obsessive, Unwanted, Repeated and never OK! Report it, ask for help, we will support you.”
Philip Wilkinson, 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.
“We know it can take an average of 100 incidents before a victim reports the crime and often significant harm has already been caused before it’s been reported and victims are suffering in silence at a time when they are at their most vulnerable.
“It’s far more common than residents realise, especially with the use of digital devices and I continue to be concerned that local people are not getting the support they need soon enough because of the delay in reporting.
“Women and young people are most commonly affected but it can happen to anyone, regardless of age or gender.
“The impact of stalking can be significant with a debilitating effect on victims’ day to day lives and this impact can also reach their family and friends. By calling out early, we can ensure that victims of support receive the support they need as early as possible.”
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 ( VAWG).
“We are aware of the Government’s pledge of halving VAWG in the next 10 years and we in Wiltshire Police are absolutely committed to doing all we can to prevent and prosecute those perpetrators of VAWG in the hope we can prevent any future female suffering male violence and supporting those who have already experienced the trauma of these devastating crimes.
“Over the next 16 days we will be highlighting to the public some of the ways Wiltshire Police and our Partners are working together to tackle VAWG in its different forms ranging from raising awareness, to operational activity in pursuing VAWG offenders. We will be also conveying key messages to women and girls who experience VAWG in how they can access help and support if they become a victim.”
Emma Bushell, Deputy Leader of Swindon Borough Council and Cabinet Member for Organisational Oversight, said: "Violence against women and girls, domestic abuse, and stalking are issues that affect many lives, often in silence. The 16 Days of Action and White Ribbon Campaign are vital opportunities for us to shine a light on these crimes, challenge harmful behaviours, and support those in need.
“In Swindon, we are hosting public engagement sessions and working with local partners to raise awareness. These initiatives aim to inform residents about the signs of abuse and stalking, how they can help, and where to find support.
“As a community, we have a responsibility to stand together against violence and ensure that everyone feels safe and supported.
"If you have been the victim or witness to a crime please report to Wiltshire Police on 101/999. If you have been the victim of sexual assault or violence please reach out to the Sexual Assault Referral Centre by calling 01793 781916. If you need support with domestic abuse please contact Swindon Paragon by calling 01793 610610."
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. Over the campaign we’ll be sharing lots of information alongside our partners on how you can help if you think something isn’t right.
“We all have a role to play in being there for people who are victims of domestic abuse and stalking but it can be difficult to know exactly what to do. You may feel awkward about asking or feel you’re intruding, but 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. I encourage people to find out as much as they can so they can help a loved one or someone they know, either now or in the future.”
People who are experiencing domestic abuse can contact:
Wiltshire:
FearFree call 01225 775276 or email
Out of hours helpline 01225 712880
Swindon:
Swindon Paragon Integrated Domestic Abuse Service 24 Hour Helpline call 01793 610610
In an emergency dial 999.
