Torbay Domestic Abuse Service to offer support at weekend's Pride event

A local domestic abuse service is aiming to raise awareness of domestic abuse in the LGBT+ community.

Torbay Domestic Abuse Service, run by Sanctuary Supported Living, will have a stall at the Torbay Pride event, at Torre Abbey Meadows on Torquay seafront on Saturday September 7.

TDAS staff will be available for a friendly chat and to help let the community know about the support available for people experiencing domestic abuse, regardless of their sexuality or gender identity.

TDAS provides practical, non-judgemental support, advice and protection for all victims of domestic abuse across Torbay, including confidential advice, support planning, and safe accommodation.

Claudia O’Neill, Local Service Manager for TDAS, said: “Many people think of domestic abuse and domestic violence as something which happens in heterosexual relationships. But the truth is, it can happen to people of any sexuality, sex, relationship status or age. And it doesn’t have to be physical violence to be abusive behaviour – it can also include coercive control, as well as psychological, sexual, financial or emotional abuse.”

She added: “The TDAS team is dedicated to providing support during Pride and throughout the year. We want people who are experiencing domestic abuse to know that support is out there, and they’re not alone.”

To find out more about the domestic abuse support available through TDAS, you can chat with a kind and caring TDAS staff member at Pride, or email TDAS@sanctuary.co.uk, or call 0800 916 1474 during office hours.

If you are currently experiencing domestic abuse, or you’re worried about someone who might be; in a non-emergency, call 101 or the Women’s Aid 24-hour helpline on 0808 2000 247. In an emergency, always call 999.