From 25 November to 10 December, organisations across Kent, Medway, Surrey and Sussex are taking part in the 16 Days of Action campaign — a global movement raising awareness of gender-based violence and domestic abuse. It’s a chance to learn the signs of domestic abuse, start conversations, and make sure people know where to turn for help. 

Domestic abuse can affect anyone. It isn’t always physical — it may show up as emotional, financial, sexual or controlling behaviour. What matters is that no one should feel scared, intimidated or controlled in their own home. 

Spotting the signs 

Abuse can look different in every situation, but some common warning signs include: 

• Controlling or monitoring behaviour 

• Isolation from friends or family 

• Intimidation, threats or harassment 

• Unwanted contact or stalking 

• Financial control 

• Physical or sexual harm.

If something doesn’t feel right, it’s worth exploring further. You can find clear guidance at: 
👉 www.domesticabuseservices.org.uk/knowseespeakout 

How to support someone you’re worried about

Talking about abuse can be difficult, but small supportive steps can make a big difference: 

1. Find a quiet, safe moment to talk

2. Use gentle, non-judgemental language

3. Listen and believe what they tell you

4. Signpost them to local domestic abuse services

5. Ask how you can support them

6. Take care of your own wellbeing too. 

Emergency: Call 999 (or use the BSL 999 app: www.999bsl.co.uk) 
Non-emergency support: 0808 16 89 111 | Live chat: www.victimsupport.org.uk 
SignLive interpreting: www.signlive.co.uk (search Victim Support) 

How TCH can help 

If you’re experiencing domestic abuse, please reach out. A trained member of our team will listen and offer confidential support. 

Your case will be assigned to a Community Safety Officer within 24 hours. They can help you look at your housing options, create a safety plan, and support you to take the steps that feel right for you. 

📞 01892 501480 (Option 2) 
📧 info@tch.org.uk 
�� In an emergency, always call 999. 

Local services 

Kent & Medway 

• Kent and Medway Domestic Abuse Helpline: domesticabuseservices.org.uk  

• DAVSS (West Kent): davss.org.uk 

• Look Ahead MIDAAS (support for men): 0333 010 4660 

• Protection Against Stalking: support@protectionagainststalking.org 

• Oasis (East Kent, Medway & North Kent): oasisdaservice.org 

Surrey & Sussex 

• Surrey Domestic Abuse Helpline: 01483 776822 (9am–9pm daily) 

• Surrey Domestic Abuse Partnership: sdapartnership.org 

• Change Grow Live (East Sussex): 0300 323 9985 

• WORTH Services (West Sussex): 033 022 28181 

New community wellbeing support in Maidstone 

Thanks to funding from TCH and Golding Homes, a new free drop-in session is now available for women affected by domestic abuse. 

The ‘And breathe…’ coffee mornings, run by Joining Hands Joining Hearts (JHJH), offer a welcoming space to talk, connect and access support. 

📍 Switch, 34A High Street, Maidstone, ME14 1JH 
🕒 Fridays, 9.30–11.30 during term time 
Children and friends are welcome. 
If you’d like to chat beforehand, call Keeley on 0786 413 6131. 

You’re not alone 

There are many ways to reach out — through TCH, local charities, helplines or trusted people in your life. Support is available, and every small step matters. 
For more information and practical tools, visit: 
👉 www.domesticabuseservices.org.uk/knowseespeakout