Project targets domestic violence

Victims of violence will be offered access to refuges

Victims of domestic violence are to be offered help and advice under a new campaign in Huddersfield.

Organisers of the project in Newsome say they want to change attitudes to physical violence within relationships.

The area has the second-highest level of reported incidents in Kirklees and the project will aim to make people more aware of the problem.

A domestic violence worker will provide day-to-day contact for those suffering at the hands of abusive partners.

Project co-ordinator Thelma Singleton said: "Our biggest problem is convincing people that domestic violence is a crime.

"In fact, nearly three-quarters of all women murdered are murdered by someone with whom they have had a relationship."

Perpetrators targeted

The dedicated worker, whose role is being funded with Neighbourhood Renewal cash, will also provide victims with access to solicitors, refuges and police assistance.

Other services, including health and education workers, will be trained to make them more aware of the signs and impact of domestic violence.

Mrs Singleton said the decision to call in police will mainly be made by the people involved.

"Mostly in domestic violence cases they don't want to end the relationship they just want to end the violence."

She added that the project would work with "perpetrators as well as victims" in a bid to reduce the problem in the district.