We Speak Up: 10 Ways to help break the silence on Domestic Abuse during the 16 Days of Activism

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It can feel really overwhelming if you're worried someone you know might be being subjected to domestic abuse or an abusive relationship. But during the 16 Days of Activism, you don’t have to be silent, even small actions can break the silence on domestic abuse, offer support, and show people they’re not alone.

Domestic abuse isn’t just a private issue. It’s reinforced by harmful social attitudes that excuse controlling behaviour, dismiss survivors’ lived experience, or shift blame onto them. When we ignore this, abuse stays hidden. Recognising these attitudes is a powerful step in speaking up, challenging the culture, and creating real change.

Here are 10 ways you can help break the silence on domestic abuse during the 16 Days of Activism:

1. Speak up on social media

Share posts to raise awareness of domestic abuse and show support. Use campaign hashtags like #WeSpeakUpWithWWIN or #WeStandWithWWIN to reach a wider audiences.

2. Share your time or platform

If you run a community group, workplace, or social media channel, offer to host a live discussion, a Q&A, or share awareness content from a specialist service about how to help someone in an abusive relationship. You can find our helpful resources here

3. Educate yourself

Learn about different forms of abuse; emotional abuse, coercive control, economic abuse etc. This is so you can recognise the signs, even when they’re not obvious. Here's some signs to look out

4. Challenge harmful attitudes

When you hear victim blaming, sexist jokes, or dismissive comments, call them out. Be an active bystander. Say something like, “That’s not OK, abuse is never the victim’s fault.”

5. Use your workplace or school

Encourage your workplace to do domestic abuse awareness training, or promote policies that support survivors.

6. Organise or join a 16‑day activity

Take part in Wear Orange Day, join an awareness walk, or host a community event. These actions show solidarity and help keep the conversation going. Need some inspiration of things you can do during the 16 Days of Activism? Follow this link

7. Share resources

Share posts from support services and phonelines on your social media or website.

8. Create a safe space for conversation

Talk openly with friends, colleagues, or neighbours about domestic abuse and violence against women and girls. Ask: “Have you heard about the 16 Days of Activism?” or “Do you know how to support someone in an abusive relationship?”

9. Support our work

Visit our “How You Can Help” page to find out what you can do if you are worried about someone else's relationship, share our posts on social media

10. Reflect on your own beliefs

Ask yourself: What do I assume about people in abusive relationships? Do I sometimes minimise emotional or controlling abuse? Changing your thinking is part of changing the culture and that’s a key part of the 16 Days of Activism.

Your voice matters. During the 16 Days of Activism, use it to break the silence, challenge harmful beliefs, and stand up for the people who may be living in fear. If enough of us speak up, we can shift the culture and make a real difference in preventing domestic abuse.

If you’ve noticed signs of domestic abuse and aren’t sure what to do, you don’t have to figure it out alone. You can call our anonymous phoneline. We can talk through your concerns, explore your options, and provide guidance and support.

Talk to us: 0300 140 0061