A CONFIDENTIAL helpline has been opened for people who are worried that a friend, family member, neighbour or colleague may be at risk of domestic abuse.

It is part of a new campaign by Somerset County Council that is running for the next three months and marks the Public Health England’s 16 days of action against domestic violence and the Avon and Somerset Police and PCC campaign called #No Excuse.

People are being asked to be vigilant and to “look, listen, ask ... ask again” if they have concerns about someone they fear may be in an abusive relationship.

Figures from Avon and Somerset Police and PCC show there were 16,900 reports in the 12 months between October 2016 and 2017.

Cllr Christine Lawrence, cabinet member for public health and wellbeing, said: “Domestic abuse can happen to anyone, and from every walk of life.

“The signs of domestic abuse are often difficult to spot and it can take a whole range of physical and emotional forms.

“Don’t ignore a gut feeling or the small signs but seek professional advice first before doing anything.”

The Somerset Integrated Domestic Abuse Service (SIDAS) helpline – 0800 69 49 999 – gives general, confidential advice on what to say to a friend or family member.

The SIDAS campaign also offers the ‘Domestic Abuse: Friends and Family Guide’.