A NATIONAL support network for male victims of domestic violence has prompted an overwhelming response since it was established in the North-East at the start of the month.

More than 7,200 people have already sought help through the group's website in two weeks, indicating the scale of a problem which founders say has been ignored for too long.

The network was set up by a County Durham man, who cannot be identified as he is also a victim of domestic violence.

The man, known as Mike, said: "For months and months I looked for advice, information and a network where I could get practical and emotional support, but I couldn't find it.

"I created this as a test to find out if people would actually use it and whether or not it would be effective and we were amazed at the response."

A national network of 29 people, most of them victims of domestic abuse, has now been established to respond to the calls for help.

The group can call upon resources from across the country, including vulnerability units, social services, emergency services and can help find emergency accommodation for victims within hours.

The group has also set up the country's first mobile phone text advice service, which is available 24 hours a day and should elicit a response within ten minutes.

Mike said: "The hardest thing is taking that first step and admitting it.

"We are here to simply let victims know there someone is there who can help and is on their side."

The group, which is backed by Victim Support, NHS Direct and The Samaritans, is organising the country's first conference on the subject, which will be held at the Royal Derwent Hotel, in Consett, County Durham, next Thursday.

Guests will include Erin Pizzey, who founded the world's first refuge for battered wives, and Dr George Days of the United Nations Domestic Violence Forum.

Actors Mark Wingett from The Bill and Nick Pickard from Hollyoaks, whose characters suffered from domestic violence, will also be attending.

To seek help, or find more details on the conference, visit itdoeshappen.org

The advice service number is 07800 647397.