An abuse-awareness charity has called on the public to look after their neighbours as an anti-domestic violence campaign begins.

The Centre Against Abuse joined the global community in marking the start of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence.

Laurie Shiell, the executive director, recognised it came as the holiday season approached.

She said: “The holidays should never be a time of dread or danger.

“Our message is simple — everyone deserves safety, everyone deserves peace and everyone deserves to be treated with dignity, during the holidays and every day of the year.”

The campaign, which started on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, will run until December 10 — Human Rights Day.

The Ministry of Youth, Social Development and Seniors yesterday saluted the campaign and encouraged the community to join the fight against abuse.

The CAA said holidays often came with increased domestic abuse because of heightened stress, financial pressures and close quarters with family.

A spokeswoman challenged the community to reflect on their roles in fighting the problem.

The public were encouraged to check on friends and neighbours, share the CAA’s online resources and support survivors and direct them to the CAA.

Those who wish to help could also wear orange, the campaign’s official colour, during the 16 Days of Activism and donate or volunteer with the CAA.

The centre’s spokeswoman said: “Gender-based abuse remains a serious issue in our community, cutting across age, race, background and parish lines.”

She added: “Even one act of kindness can change the course of someone’s life.”

She said all who reached out were met with “empathetic, confidential and expert care” by specialists in domestic abuse and sexual assault response.

Ms Shiell said: “As we begin this season of celebration, let us also begin a season of change.

“We have the power, individually and collectively, to make Bermuda a safer place.

“Through crisis intervention, counselling, safe housing assistance, court advocacy and community education, CAA works year-round to build a safer, healthier Bermuda.”

The Centre against Abuse can be contacted by calling 292-4366, e-mailing info@centreagainstabuse.bm, or visiting the charity’s website.

Its 24-hour confidential hotline can be reached at 297-8278.