The campaign, which starts on 25 November, is a powerful reminder that domestic abuse affects thousands of people in Hampshire. Every year an estimated 34,100 women and 18,000 men, plus 42,600 children and young people who are now legally recognised as victims in their own right, experience abuse.
Hampshire County Council is proud to work with the Authentic Voice Panel, a group of survivors of domestic abuse who share their experiences to shape and influence support services, policy and practice across the county. Supported by SafeLives, the panel ensures that decisions about domestic abuse services reflect the realities faced by those who have lived through it.
Jaye Williams from SafeLives, and Hampshire’s Authentic Voice Coordinator comments: “In this time of growing awareness about domestic abuse in all its forms, I want to acknowledge what an honour it is to work alongside the Hampshire Authentic Voice Panel’s victims/survivors. Watching them lift their community, shape services, and guide professionals toward safer, more trauma-informed practice is incredibly inspiring.
“Every member of this courageous and passionate Panel has travelled their own difficult path. They understand deeply the impact domestic abuse has on individuals, children, and families. It is these lived experiences that fuel their drive for change. By using their voices, they are lighting the way towards a safer tomorrow. Their determination comes from one shared hope: that no one else should ever have to endure what they survived.”
Councillor Stephen Reid, Executive Member for Health and Wellbeing, said: “Speaking up about domestic abuse and gender-based violence is vital if we want to create safer communities. The Authentic Voice Panel reminds us that real experiences can drive change, and that silence can allow harm to continue. If you’re concerned about a family member, friend, neighbour, or colleague - whether you know they’re being abused, suspect they’re at risk, or fear someone you know could be using abusive behaviour, I urge you to contact the Hampshire Domestic Abuse Advice Line. One phone call could make all the difference to someone’s safety and wellbeing, especially if they don’t feel able to reach out themselves.”
The Hampshire Domestic Abuse Partnership (HDAP) is working with a wide range of local services to deliver training, awareness events, and community activities during the 16 Days. Highlights include:
- Children’s Art Exhibition – “The Art of Being Heard”
- Training for schools on recognising and responding to domestic abuse
- Launch of Young People’s Domestic Abuse Ambassadors
A full calendar of events is available at the HDAP website.
Help is available for anyone affected by domestic abuse. Call the Hampshire Domestic Abuse Advice Line on 03300 165112 or visit HDAP for information on what support is available. If you are in immediate danger, call 999 and ask for the police. If you can’t speak, press 55 when prompted.
Let’s create a Hampshire where everyone feels safe, respected, and supported.