Join Somerset Council and partner agencies that deliver the domestic abuse service, for 16 Days of Action Against Gender-Based Violence, at this year’s drop-in events in Taunton, offering a safe and supportive space to raise awareness, find help, and connect with others.
Somerset Council’s Domestic Abuse Service, facilitated by the YOU Trust and partners, is proud to continue supporting the international 16 Days of Action Against Gender-Based Violence campaign, which runs from 25 November (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) to 10 December (Human Rights Day).
As part of this year’s campaign, the Council and partners are hosting two open drop-in sessions designed to raise awareness about domestic abuse, provide information and support, and offer a welcoming environment for anyone affected by it.
Cllr Federica Smith-Roberts, Lead Executive Member for Communities at Somerset Council, said:
“These drop-in sessions are an important part of our ongoing work to raise awareness of gender-based violence and support those who have been affected. We want to create a safe and inclusive space where people can talk, seek help, and connect with others who understand.”
Join us for coffee, cake, and crafting
Anyone who has experienced, is experiencing, or is concerned about domestic abuse is welcome to come along. Enjoy coffee, cake, and a relaxed crafting session while meeting others in a safe and understanding space.
Event details:
Wednesday 27 November 2025
Apsley House, Tower Street, Taunton, TA1 4BH
- 10am – 1pm: Female drop-in
- 2pm – 5pm: Male drop-in
The events are open to:
- Current clients
- New clients
- Previous clients
A safe space to connect and share
Both events will be fully supported by experienced managers and advocates who can offer:
- A listening ear
- A safe space to share experiences
- Support with disclosures and referrals in a non-pressured environment
Help is available, all year round
Somerset Council’s domestic abuse service operates year-round to provide advice, support, and resources for those affected by domestic abuse. Support is available for:
- those experiencing domestic abuse – visit Somerset Domestic Abuse; and
- those concerned about their own behaviour – visit Somerset Domestic Abuse’s Information for those causing harm page.
Help is available every day. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, contact Somerset Domestic Abuse Service:
- 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 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
By working together and raising awareness, meaningful steps can be taken towards ending gender-based violence.
For more information, visit UN Women’s 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence
