Sixteen brave survivors of domestic abuse are reaching out to encourage men and women to seek help.
Their messages of hope form part of a 16 day campaign in Salford which starts Monday November 25 to raise awareness of the issue and the range of help available.
Each one has spoken directly from the heart to anyone experiencing domestic abuse, reassuring them that they will be believed and helped if they speak up. The campaign, which will run on social media, also signposts men and women to organisations which can help and advise them.
Councillor David Lancaster, lead member for environment and community safety, said: “Domestic abuse affects both men or women and sadly, happens in every community and every neighbourhood. If your partner is controlling who you see, where you go and what you do, checking every move or phone message you make, taking charge of your money or isolating you from family and friends, that’s domestic abuse.
“If they are constantly criticising you, threatening you or using actual physical violence, that is also domestic abuse. No-one should have to live in fear and misery and this campaign aims to show people can break away because the help is out there.”
A spokeswoman for Salford Independent Domestic Advice Service (SIDASS) said: “It does take courage to tell someone about what’s going on but the relief of being listened to and believed is incredible. Once they have opened up we and other organisations can work with them to decide what they want to do.
“We work with both men and women and I have so much love and respect for all survivors who overcome the most horrendous circumstances. I have seen so many of them move on to have safe and happy lives and I hope this campaign helps others to speak up and get the help they need.”
If you are experiencing domestic abuse and want to speak to someone about it you can contact the 24/7 national helpline (which also has translators for people whose first language is not English) on 0808 2000 247or see www.salford.gov.uk/
