A SHOCKING one in eight women in the West Mercia area will experience domestic violence and abuse this Christmas, according to a leading charity.

West Mercia Women’s Aid, which works across Worcestershire as well as Herefordshire and Shropshire, witnesses an increase in incidents of domestic abuse each year during the festive period.

In response it will be offering support to victims and survivors every day throughout December.

Jan Frances, chief executive of the charity, said: “At a time when most agencies are closed and help is difficult to find, our Christmas message to all those suffering in silence is that our services are open 24-hours a day, 365 days a year.

“If you are worried, please pick up the phone and call our confidential 24-hour helpline numbers.

“We will listen and support and help you either to escape the violence immediately – even on Christmas Day – or to plan for a happier and safer life in 2015.”

For more information, call 0800 9803331.