The 16 Days of Action runs from 25th November to 10th December. This year, our focus is on amplifying the experiences of marginalised and minority groups, increasing visibility, and strengthening inclusive, community-driven approaches to ending domestic abuse.
Our 2025 programme combines staff learning, creative empowerment, and a targeted social media campaign designed to reach groups who often face the highest barriers to support.
Inclusive Social Media Campaign: Spotlight on Marginalised Communities
Throughout the 16 Days, we will share daily content across Facebook and Instagram, with a strong focus on communities that experience additional barriers to safety and disclosure.
Our social media plan highlights:
• Barriers to access for people facing language, cultural or immigration challenges
• Representation and visibility, including signposting to community-specific services
• LGBTQ+ experiences, with clear messaging that abuse happens in all types of relationships
• Language and culture, promoting interpreters, cultural sensitivity and safe enquiry
• Women and men from minority ethnic communities, highlighting risks created by racism, stigma or community isolation.
• Disability inclusion, focusing on accessibility and communication needs
• Economic inequality, addressing financial dependence and structural disadvantage
What the campaign aims to do:
• Increase recognition of barriers experienced by marginalised groups.
• Promote inclusive practice across professionals and partners.
• Ensure communities know they are seen, understood and welcome at GDASS.
• Highlight specialist support routes in Gloucestershire and nationally.
• Encourage safe disclosures and informed responses.
Domestic Abuse and LGBT+ People – Internal Lunch & Learn
We will be hosting an internal session for GDASS staff focusing on domestic abuse within LGBT+ communities. This will be a space to:
• Understand specific forms of abuse and barriers to support.
• Reflect on inclusive practice within GDASS.
• Share learning and identify opportunities to strengthen access
Art for Action – Creative Empowerment Workshop
As part of our Breathe Group Programme, we are running a creative workshop shaped around empowerment and visibility. Activities include:
• Stone painting
• Canvas square art
• Messages of hope and solidarity
Voices for Change – Community Arts & Awareness Activity
This year, we are also launching Voices for Change, designed to gather pledges, spark conversation and highlight shared commitment to ending violence.
Our Tree for Action will travel across GDASS sites and other locations, inviting staff, clients and partners to write a pledge on a leaf and add it to the display.
Engagement with Minority Ethnic Communities
Work continues to deepen engagement with minority ethnic communities across the county. A dedicated event is planned for 10th December.
This work has been developed by OPCC, with GDASS providing additional support.
How You Can Get Involved
Your engagement is central to the success of this year’s campaign. You can:
• Promote 16 Days activities safely within your teams.
• Share, like, and amplify our social media posts each day
If you have any questions about the topics raised throughout the campaign, please get in touch with us on the professionals line - 01452 726 561
If you would like to talk to us about your relationship or situation, or if you are concerned about somebody else, our helpdesk is open Monday to Friday, 9 am – 5 pm. The best way to refer is via the website, www.gdass.org.uk
Telephone: 01452 726 570
Email: support@gdass.org.uk
