Domestic Abuse Strategy Public Consultation

Overview

Somerset Council is seeking your views to help shape our new Domestic Abuse Strategy for 2026–2029. This strategy will guide how we and our partners work together to prevent abuse, protect those at risk, and support recovery across the county.

Domestic abuse can affect anyone—regardless of age, gender, or background. It includes emotional, psychological, economic, online, sexual and physical abuse, as well as controlling or coercive behaviour. Our aim is to ensure that support across Somerset is accessible, effective, and responsive to the needs of all communities.

About This Consultation

This consultation asks questions about how domestic abuse is responded to in Somerset. Your feedback will help us understand what is working well and where improvements are needed—from early intervention and community awareness, to safe accommodation and long-term recovery.

All responses are anonymous. We do not ask for your name, and no one will know that you participated. If you choose to receive a copy of your response, you may provide your email address. We will also ask some optional questions about your characteristics (e.g. age, gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity) to help us understand the views of people from different backgrounds. These questions are voluntary.

Please do not include any personal information in your responses. We understand this is a sensitive topic and may be distressing.

If you wish to complete this consultation in paper form, printed copies are available at the Somerset Libraries. 

Need Support?

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, help is available:

• Call Somerset Domestic Abuse Service: 0800 69 49 999 (8am–8pm, 7 days a week including bank holidays)
• Visit somersetdomesticabuse.org.uk (includes live chat)
• Email: domesticabuseservice@somerset.gov.uk
• In an emergency, call 999. If you cannot speak, press 55 when prompted to be connected to the police.

For those who are deaf, hard of hearing, or speech-impaired:

• Register with emergencySMS.net to text 999 in an emergency.
• Use 999 BSL for a British Sign Language interpreter.