WARRINGTON Borough Council is asking residents to show their support for domestic abuse victims this December.

The annual White Ribbon 16 Days of Action campaign is a worldwide movement that promotes an end to domestic abuse, and runs through to Thursday, December 10.

You may see people around the town wearing white ribbons in support of the campaign, which under #YouAreNotAlone aims to reassure those affected by domestic abuse that support services remain available during this difficult time.

In the UK, three women are killed each week because of domestic abuse and one in four women will experience physical abuse at some point during their lifetimes. Domestic abuse also affects one in six men.

Warrington Refuge, an independent domestic abuse service, received more than 1,399 referrals from victims – 1,331 for adults including men and women and 68 children.

In addition to this, more than 3,000 cases of domestic abuse were reported to Cheshire Police during the period by residents in Warrington.

Cllr Maureen McLaughlin, cabinet member for housing, public health and wellbeing, said: “Our experience with COVID-19 has shown our huge capacity for compassion and love for one another as we have come together to help those most in need.

“Domestic abuse is everyone's business, and what is needed now more than ever is to ensure anyone experiencing domestic abuse is aware of the confidential support available.

“I hope these campaigns will reach the thousands of people experiencing domestic abuse, helping send the message that you are not alone.

“Agencies in Warrington are united in their determination to tackle the issue and these campaigns are an opportunity to recognise and reflect on the good work done so far to support victims.

READ> The coronavirus situation in Warrington as lockdown ends

“However, we also must acknowledge how much more we need to do to ensure that domestic abuse is not something that is allowed to be quietly endured or ignored.”

Cabinet member for children’s services, Cllr Matt Smith, added: “Not only are women and men experiencing unacceptable behaviour from partners, ex-partners and family members, but their children are suffering harmful effects.

“We need to do everything we can to support families and prevent children from going through this awful experience and to show victims of domestic abuse, that they are not on their own.”

If you have been affected by domestic abuse, call Warrington Refuge on 243359 or visit refuge.org.uk/warrington

You can also freephone a 24-hour national domestic abuse helpline via 0808 2000 247 or visit nationaldahelpline.org.uk