Campaign aims to raise awareness about abuse

In Hambleton District Council's Don't Suffer in Silence campaign, notices will be distributed in hospitals, GP surgeries and pubs, with advice and information about where victims can get help.

The posters feature a photograph of a fist, alongside the caption "Hit me, kick me, punch me, love me."

Linda Ashman, the anti-domestic abuse officer for Hambleton's Community Safety Partnership, said many people were not aware of the problem. She said: "There is a misconception that, being a rural area, North Yorkshire does not have a problem with domestic abuse.

"While the figures here are lower, we suspect that is not because it does not happen, but because it is not being reported.

"Many people feel isolated, especially if they live away from the towns, and it is difficult for them to know where to turn for help.

"Many victims do not want to leave the relationship - they just want the abuse to stop."

She said drugs and alcohol were often a big factor, so people can be referred to Hambleton and Richmondshire Community Addiction Service.

She said: "We can also help victims avoid having to go into a refuge by helping to make their homes more secure.

"Having said all that, often people just want someone to talk to, and we can provide that, too."

Ms Ashman said the problem was not restricted to women and said men also suffered abuse.

However, she said men found it even harder to ask for help, seeing it as a sign of weakness.

Community safety partnership manager Rosemary Taylor said it was vital victims that victims received help.

She said: "The problem is under reported, and we want more people to come forward and access the help they need.

"It may not make our figures look great but, as a council, we want to help people as much as we can. People who come forward will be taken seriously, and given accessible options to make themselves and their children safer."

Anyone who needs help can call 0797-148-9187 or 0808-200- 0247.