Somerset Council is joining partners across the county and beyond to mark this year’s 16 Days of Action Against Gender-Based Violence.
The action shines a light on digital domestic abuse – a growing form of coercive control where technology is used to monitor, threaten, exploit or isolate victims.
The campaign calls for collective action to prevent abuse, protect those at risk, and support recovery for those affected.
Running from today (International Day for Elimination of Violence Against Woman) to December 10th (Human Rights Day), the international campaign urges communities to come together to end all forms of violence against women and girls.
Across Somerset, events, drop-ins, and awareness activities will highlight how abuse can happen online and through digital means, often hidden behind screens but leaving very real scars and significant harm.
Cllr Federica Smith-Roberts, Lead Executive Member for Communities at Somerset Council, said: “Technology should be a force for connection, not control.
“Sadly, we’re seeing a rise in cases where digital tools are being used to harass, track, or intimidate partners and ex-partners. This year’s campaign is about shining a light on this hidden form of abuse and ensuring that people know where to find help.”
Digital domestic abuse can include:
- Tracking someone’s location through apps or devices
- Monitoring messages, emails, or social media accounts
- Sending abusive or threatening messages
- Sharing or threatening to share private images
- Using smart home devices or online accounts to exert control
Cllr Roberts added: “We all have a part to play in ending domestic abuse – online and offline. By talking about digital abuse and recognising the warning signs, we can help ensure that no one in Somerset feels isolated or controlled by technology.”
Somerset Council, through its commissioned Somerset Domestic Abuse Service, facilitated by the YOU Trust and partners, provides confidential, specialist support to anyone affected by domestic abuse — including digital abuse.
Support available:
- Call: 0800 69 49 999 (8am–8pm, 7 days a week including bank holidays)
- Visit: Somerset Domestic Abuse (including live chat)
- Email: domesticabuseservice@somerset.gov.uk
If you are in immediate danger, call 999. If you cannot speak, press 55 when prompted — this will connect you to the police through the Silent Solution system.
For those who are D/deaf, hard of hearing, or speech-impaired, register with emergencySMS.net to text 999 in an emergency. If you use British Sign Language (BSL), you can contact 999 BSL for BSL
Somerset Council is also supporting today’s White Ribbon Day, encouraging men and boys to take the pledge to never use, excuse, or remain silent about violence against women and girls.
A spokesperson said: “We all have a part to play in ending domestic abuse – online and offline.
“By talking about digital abuse and recognising the warning signs, we can help ensure that no one in Somerset feels isolated or controlled by technology.”