The annual North Tyneside Domestic Abuse Awareness Week returns later next week – helping to highlight the issue and encourage people to report problems.
Around one in four women and one in six men are victims of domestic abuse at some point in their lives, but fewer than half report it.
In North Tyneside last year, there were 4,108 reported incidents of domestic abuse and over half of these sadly involved and affected children.
To highlight the issue and encourage victims – men or women – to report problems they are experiencing and access support, North Tyneside Council is holding the awareness-raising week between November 23 and 29.
It concludes with the annual and poignant ‘DIVA’ Walk – which stands for ‘Don’t Ignore Violence and Abuse’.
Taking place on Sunday 29 November, support organisations will also be there and members of the public are invited to join in, too.
Cllr Alison Waggott-Fairley, cabinet member for Adult Social Care, said: “Domestic abuse can affect all parts of society and the week-long event helps us to raise awareness of the issue and encourage sufferers to seek help.
“It culminates with the DIVA Walk which symbolises strength and hope, while also raising awareness of the range of support that is available in North Tyneside, whatever your circumstances.”
Setting off at 11am from Tynemouth Priory, walkers will cover around 3.5miles before finishing at Waves, Whitley Bay, at approximately 12pm.
The North Tyneside Domestic Abuse Awareness Week also coincides with the International Day for Elimination of Violence Against Women, taking place on November 25.
North Tyneside Council and its partners offer a wide range of practical and emotional help to those who may be experiencing domestic abuse, from financial advice and help to find safe accommodation, to counselling and support groups.