VICTIMS of domestic abuse are being offered “invaluable” free legal support across the Tees Valley.

Access to reliable legal advice is important to many survivors of abuse, who may face the prospect of criminal or family court proceedings.

With that in mind, EVA Women’s Aid has been working with a Teesside law firm to offer victims of domestic abuse legal support in fortnightly drop-in sessions.

The surgeries, held at the Redcar-based charity’s headquarters, address a variety of issues, including those arising from violence, family matters or contact arrangements.

Advisors from Cygnet Law can also refer people to other support services or help them to begin arrangements for legal proceedings including non-molestation orders.

Legal assistant Steph Bellerby said: “We are proud to support victims of domestic violence.

“We hope that, through donating our time and expertise, we can help to make a positive difference to the lives of those who are suffering.

“Victims of domestic abuse often feel that they are trapped and isolated so having a safe place they can visit to gain support from EVA and ourselves is really important.”

On Tuesday, Cygnet Law confirmed that their pro-bono support, which has been offered at the charity for around three years, will continue until at least the end of the year.

Richinda Taylor, chief executive at EVA Women’s Aid, welcomed the firm’s announcement.

She said: “The support of Cygnet Law provides EVA with an additional service, which means we are able to offer invaluable legal provision to the vulnerable women who turn to us for help.

“Often taking legal steps is the first step towards turning their lives around.”

Ms Taylor added: “This service is invaluable because it means we are able to accompany our clients to their first legal appointment and it means they can attend it in a building that they are familiar with and in an atmosphere they’re comfortable with.

“For a lot of women, this is the first time in this kind of a situation and they may be unaware of what help they are entitled to or what options there are.

“This is an opportunity for them to speak to a professional and find out what kind of help they are entitled to.”

The next drop-in surgeries will take place at EVA Women’s Aid, 86 High Street, Redcar from 10am until 4pm on Tuesday, May 16, Saturday, June 10 and Monday, June 26.

For support and advice relating to domestic abuse, call EVA on 01642 490677 or, for legal advice, Cygnet Law on 01642 777680.