Gillian Guy, Chief Executive of Citizens Advice, has today blogged about the end of the 16 Days of Action that has formed part of their Talk about abuse campaign.
She writes that the campaign has been “a really important opportunity to encourage people to Talk about abuse” and says “the most important part of this past fortnight or so has been the powerful, brave and moving stories told by victims themselves,”
“We know that specialist domestic abuse charities play a crucial role supporting victims of abuse, but we know also that most people going through abuse will not turn first to specialists, the police or other agencies, but to their friends and families. Helping these ‘bystanders’ to support victims is a crucial element in tackling domestic abuse.”
She reminds those affected by abuse that there are specialists who can help you. See Citizens Advice’s online advice on domestic abuse, where you’ll find lots of organisations that can help.
Locally:
- Ashford Domestic Abuse One Stop Shop offers free advice, information and support from a range of agencies under one roof to help victims of domestic abuse. Domestic abuse can affect anyone and therefore, if you are a man or a woman and would like to discuss your issues, you are welcome to attend. No appointment is required just turn up.
The Willow Centre, Brookfield Road, Ashford, Kent TN23 4EY
Telephone: 07598 74504
Opening times: Every Tuesday morning 9.30am – 12.30pm - Domestic Abuse Support in Kent website, a new resource covering Kent and Medway providing advice and information on services for victims, friends & family, and perpetrators of Domestic Abuse. http://www.domesticabuseservices.org.uk/
After the final day of the 16 Days of Action, tomorrow, we will compile all of our #talkaboutabuse posts and link to them from our main menu.