Wiltshire Council will launch a year-long campaign next month to raise awareness of the impact of domestic abuse.

The ‘No Excuse for Abuse’ campaign will focus on raising awareness and encouraging people to access appropriate help and support early on, and prevent future escalation.

Wiltshire Council corporate director Maggie Rae said “This is our way of reminding everyone that help is available, not to suffer in silence and to have the courage to speak out.

“Domestic abuse is often referred to as the ‘hidden crime’ as victims are often fearful of reporting what is happening to them.”

Domestic abuse can impact on many lives, with up to one in four women and one in six men being affected by one of the many forms of domestic abuse in a lifetime.

Keith Humphries, cabinet member for public protection and public health said: “We want to raise awareness of this crime, which often goes unreported.

“By increasing the understanding that domestic abuse is not just physical violence, but includes many subtle forms of abuse and controlling patterns of behaviour, victims may be able to prevent escalating behaviours of domestic abuse.

“Any form of abuse within a relationship is not acceptable and should stop.”

The campaign will be launched at County Hall in Trowbridge on September 4, with a ‘Walk in White’, where people are invited to wear white clothing or accessories to reflect the white ribbon, which is the national awareness symbol.

If you are or know someone who is living with the affects of domestic abuse, call the National Domestic Abuse Helpline 0808 2000 247 (free phone in partnership with Women’s Aid and Refuge) or visit www.speakoutwiltshire.com

In an emergency call 999.