A DOMESTIC abuse awareness event was held on Friday by North Worcestershire Community Safety Partnership, speaking out against domestic abuse in all forms and irrespective of gender.

The event was held by Bromsgrove and Redditch councils after drawing inspiration from the worldwide campaign, The White Ribbon and its 16 days of action.

Both councils aim to increase recognition of domestic abuse and encourage and support people affected by it to seek the help that’s available with this years theme being ‘step into their shoes’.

The aim is to encourage people to think about the experiences other people are going through and how they can support them.

Cllr Peter Whittaker, Bromsgrove District Council’s portfolio holder for community safety, said: “Domestic abuse can be a very personal, private matter, but that doesn’t make it any less real or mean it has to be tolerated. We want to make it easier for people to recognise domestic abuse and get the support that could help them and their loved ones.”

An event for young people is being held on Thursday, December 6 at Parkside in Bromsgrove, and will discuss the impact of domestic abuse and Child Sexual Exploitation on young people.

The 24hr domestic abuse helpline run by Women’s Aid can be reached by calling 0800 980 3331.