Adam Dance column: Standing with survivors of domestic abuse

It cuts across age, background, and gender, and too often it remains hidden.

Behind every statistic is a person trying to rebuild their life after experiencing harm.

In Parliament last week, I raised concerns about how well our systems are supporting survivors - and where they are falling short.

One issue I highlighted was the Child Maintenance Service.

I have been contacted by a constituent who is owed over £15,000 by an abusive former partner.

Instead of receiving support, she has been left in financial hardship while caring for disabled children.

Sadly, this is not an isolated case.

Some perpetrators are able to exploit gaps in the system to avoid payments and continue exerting control.

That is why I believe government guidance must be strengthened and put into law, so survivors are properly protected.

I also spoke about the unique challenges faced in rural areas like ours.

When survivors leave abusive situations, they are often rehoused far from their home communities.

Without reliable public transport, it can become incredibly difficult to access work, education or even stay connected with family and friends.

This isolation can make an already difficult situation even harder.

We need to ensure that rural communities are not overlooked when it comes to funding and planning support services.

Locally, we are fortunate to have organisations such as Somerset Domestic Abuse Service, which provides essential help to those affected.

From advice and support to safe accommodation, their work is invaluable.

But they cannot do it alone.

It is also important to recognise that domestic abuse affects men as well as women.

Around a third of victims are male, yet many feel unable to speak out.

We must continue to break down stigma and ensure support is there for everyone who needs it.

The Liberal Democrats are calling for stronger protections for survivors, better funding for specialist services, and action to close loopholes that allow abuse to continue.

Ultimately, this is about ensuring that no one is left behind - whether they live in a city or a rural community like ours.

If you are experiencing domestic abuse or know someone who is, please reach out.

Help is available, and you do not have to face it alone.

You can call Somerset Domestic Abuse seven days a week between 8am and 8pm on 0800 69 49 999.