Solihull Council has launched a new awareness campaign to support victims of domestic abuse, challenge misconceptions, and highlight the availability of local support.
The campaign follows extensive local research, including a borough-wide survey conducted in April 2025. Findings showed that while 60% of respondents recognised abuse goes beyond physical violence, many people still struggle to identify coercive control, emotional harm, and financial abuse as abuse. Almost 90% of victims surveyed reported fear of retaliation as a barrier to seeking help, while 83% highlighted financial dependence, and 75% pointed to shame.
The campaign makes clear that “If they harm you, control you, or scare you - it’s abuse”, highlighting that abuse can take many forms, including coercion, emotional manipulation or financial control.
Cllr Wazma Qais, Solihull Council’s Cabinet Member for domestic abuse, said: “The campaign is very clear: Solihull stands together against domestic abuse.
“Everyone across the borough deserves to feel safe, and we are committed to working in partnership with Birmingham and Solihull Women’s Aid, West Midlands Police and other local organisations to help anyone who needs it.
“Whether you’re a family member, friend, neighbour, everyone in the community can play their role in recognising abuse for what it is, and help people to access the right support.”
Victims in Solihull can access confidential support through Birmingham and Solihull Women’s Aid (BSWA). Services include helplines for both women and men, drop-in sessions, specialist support for children and young people, and Independent Domestic Violence Advisors (IDVAs) for those at higher risk. Crucially, support is available whether or not someone is ready to leave their situation.
Victims of domestic abuse can find discreet, confidential support at solihull.gov.uk/domestic-abuse or by contacting Birmingham and Solihull Women’s Aid on 0808 800 0028.
How partners and witnesses can play a role
The council is also calling on partners, professionals, and the wider community to play their part. Local groups such as GP surgeries, nail and hair salons, barbers, bars, pubs, restaurants, faith centres and workplaces are being encouraged to share campaign materials, display posters, and use information packs to help victims and bystanders know where to turn.
Campaign materials include an Information and Referral Guide, along with posters, information cards with QR codes linking to support, and social media graphics. These are designed to be discreet, easy to share, and accessible for victims whenever they are ready to seek help.
If an organisation would like to use any campaign materials, please contact Andrea.Cooke@solihull.gov.uk
There is also a dedicated landing page to make it easier for victims, professionals, and the wider community to find help and resources: https://solihull.gov.uk/domestic-abuse.