A NEW service for victims and survivors of domestic violence has been launched in Sedgefield borough.

Services available at Number 31 and Soda, a one-stop shop based in Newton Aycliffe, are provided by a team of professionals and volunteers, all of who are specifically trained to work within domestic violence.

Number 31 offers emotional and practical support through appointments or via drop-in sessions every Tuesday from 9am until 11am.

The group provides links to community organisations which can help with practical issues such as housing, safe accommodation, welfare benefits, legal advice and crime prevention.

Soda, which stands for Survivors of Domestic Abuse, is a support group for women who are experiencing domestic violence, or who have been abused in the past.

The group runs informal sessions every Wednesday from 10am until noon and provides an opportunity for woman to share experiences and be in the company of other women who have encountered domestic abuse.

Although services for domestic violence victims have been available in the borough for some time, this is the first time they have brought together in this way.

Domestic violence outreach worker Jo Caygill said there were 1,700 reported cases of domestic violence in Sedgefield borough last year, and many more which went unreported.

She said: "Although we want to encourage people to come along, it is a confidential service, it's discreet and held in a safe environment where people can come along and share their experiences or ask for guidance and advice."

Volunteer Pauline Turner said: "The sessions are for women who has experienced domestic violence, it could have happened years ago but perhaps the victim has never had the opportunity to sit and talk about it."

Number 31 and Soda, funded by Sedgefield Borough Council and Victim Support, is based at 31 Upper Beveridge Way, Newton Aycliffe. Appointments are not always necessary.

The services are available to women only, but male victims of domestic violence can get help through Victim Support.

Anyone who wants more information should contact Number 31 on (01325) 317903; Soda on (01325) 317275; Victim Support services for men on (01325) 319263; the 24-hour helpline on (0191) 586 3055 or log on to www. sedgefield-dvf.org