Her Majesty The Queen visits Gloucestershire Domestic Abuse Support Service
The visit was hosted by Gloucestershire Domestic Abuse Support Service (GDASS), which is commissioned by Gloucestershire County Council and delivered by GreenSquareAccord (GSA).
Funding partners include the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Gloucestershire (OPCC), and the NHS Integrated Care Board.
Upon arrival, Her Majesty met privately with a domestic abuse survivor who now works for the service after receiving direct support.
Her Majesty then met with staff and volunteers, who outlined the stages of an individual’s journey through GDASS services, from initial contact through to the range of support available to those who have experienced, or are experiencing, domestic abuse.
GSA has been delivering domestic abuse support services in Gloucestershire since 2012.
Cllr Paul Hodgkinson, cabinet member for Public Health, Communities and Fire said: "Her Majesty’s visit is a powerful recognition of the professionalism and compassion shown every day by the GDASS team to tackle domestic abuse. We will continue to invest in services and support to tackle domestic abuse, and deliver safer outcomes for victims and survivors and their families.
“This is a partnership effort across the county to prevent harm, reduce risk, and support recovery.”
Between July 2024 and July 2025, GDASS received 9,400 referrals for support, responded to 1,000 calls to its professional helpline, and delivered training or engagement to 3,622 individuals across Gloucestershire.
OPCC’s Domestic Abuse Lead, Sophie Jarrett said: “It was an honour to meet Her Majesty and to share the vital work taking place here in Gloucestershire to support people affected by domestic abuse and sexual violence. The OPCC has proudly funded victim services locally for many years, including contributing to GDASS.
“Her Majesty’s visit helps to shine an important light on the work of GDASS and on the courage of those who come forward for help. There are staff that provide vital care and support for vulnerable victims and survivors, and it was wonderful to be able to thank them during this royal visit.”
GDASS can be contacted at any stage for advice and support.
Phone: 01452 726 570
Email: support@gdass.org.uk
The helpdesk is managed by support workers who are able to offer immediate support and advice and take referrals.
Photo: Her Majesty The Queen meets with Cllr Paul Hodgkinson and Siobhan Farmer, Director of Public Health.