Sanctuary Supported Living’s Plymouth Domestic Abuse Services (PDAS) and Torbay Domestic Abuse Services (TDAS) are proud to support this year’s 16 Days of Activism campaign, an annual international initiative to combat domestic abuse and promote safer communities.
Running from the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women on 25 November, until Human Rights Day on 10 December, the campaign highlights the urgent need for education, support, and resources for those affected by domestic abuse.
PDAS and TDAS, provide trauma-informed, non-judgemental support, advice and protection for individuals and families who have experienced, or who are currently experiencing, domestic abuse. This includes emergency accommodation, outreach support, and tailored programs.
Their kind and dedicated staff aim to empower people to recognise all forms of domestic abuse, and help them to rebuild their lives free from violence and coercion. Throughout the 16 Days of Activism, the PDAS and TDAS teams are aiming to raise awareness of domestic abuse and the support both services provide.
Members of the TDAS team will be taking part in events to help spread the word about the support they offer in the Torbay area, and are encouraging the local community to join in, including:
Thursday 28 November – a “Barbie vs. Reality” information stand for students at South Devon College
Friday 6 December – disco bingo at the Hyde Dendy pub in Paignton (pay on the door)
The PDAS team will also be running interactive information and activity stands at Derriford Hospital in Plymouth throughout the 16 Days of Activism, raising awareness of coercive control, safe spaces, and available support. On 25 November, they’ll attend a meeting with Plymouth City Councillors to raise awareness and advocate for domestic abuse services in the city.
Nicola Blackwell, Local Service Manager for PDAS, commented: “Domestic abuse can have devastating effects, not only on individuals but on entire families. During the 16 Days of Activism, we’re encouraging people in our local communities to speak up against abuse, in all its forms. We want to reach as many people as possible and let them know that help is available, and they don’t have to face it alone.”
Claudia O’Neill, Local Service Manager for TDAS, added: “No one should feel isolated or trapped in an abusive or coercive situation. Especially with Christmas coming up, we understand that it can be a particularly challenging time of year for people who are experiencing domestic abuse, with added family stress and money worries, as well as effects of the cost-of-living crisis. Please don’t be afraid to take that first step towards getting the help you need. Everyone has the right to feel safe, and we are here for you.”
To further support those in need, PDAS and TDAS have created Amazon wish lists with gifts, festive treats and essential items to help bring a smile to people’s faces this Christmas, including families with children who have experienced domestic abuse. If you’d like to support them, please visit their wish lists:
PDAS Amazon wish list
TDAS Amazon wish list
For more information about the support available for people experiencing domestic abuse, contact:
PDAS (Plymouth) 0800 458 2558
www.sanctuary-supported-living.co.uk/pdas
PDAS@sanctuary.co.uk
TDAS (Torbay) 0800 916 1474
www.sanctuary-supported-living.co.uk/tdas
TDAS@sanctuary.co.uk
If you’re currently experiencing domestic abuse; in a non-emergency, call 101 or the Women’s Aid 24-hour helpline on 0808 2000 247. In an emergency, call 999.
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