“Don’t just wish for it to get better” Welsh Government launches domestic abuse TV campaign

A campaign urging people to take action on domestic abuse will be shown on television from today (Friday).

The Welsh Government campaign, which will also run on social media, urges people to take action if they suspect a friend or family member is being subjected to domestic abuse.

Using the strapline “Don’t just wish for it to get better”, the campaign highlights how Christmas can often be a catalyst for domestic abuse to escalate in families where there is already a cycle of abuse.  

It sends the message that friends and family who see the signs of domestic abuse, should not just hope for the abuse to go away, but should heed the warning signs, take action and seek help or the consequences could be life changing.

Communities Secretary Carl Sargeant said:

“Domestic abuse is not always easy to spot and signs can go unnoticed for months, even years. However, sometimes colleagues, friends, neighbours and even family members may notice the signs but don’t act on their suspicions for fear they are mistaken, interfering or even making the victim’s situation worse.

“With this campaign, we aim to encourage those who suspect abuse of a friend or family member to take action and to make sure they have the information they need to find help.”

The TV advert will be shown on ITV Wales and S4C from Friday December 16th until Saturday December 31st. Some of the adverts will be played during prime time shows such as Coronation Street, Emmerdale and Pobl y Cwm, ITV News programmes and S4C’s coverage of Welsh rugby derby matches.

Also AM for Alyn and Deeside, Mr Sargeant is backing Domestic Abuse Safety Unit (DASU) in Shotton with a Christmas appeal. He is asking for donations of gifts or selection boxes for the children and teenagers of families supporting by DASU.

“The response has been overwhelming – people are so generous,” said Mr Sargeant.

“The quality and quantity of the gifts has been astounding and DASU and I are so grateful. Anyone who wishes to contribute should get their gift to my office at 70 High Street, Connah’s Quay, CH5 4DD by 4.30pm on Wednesday, December 21.”