THE woman who pioneered women's refuges became the patron of the Derwentside Domestic Violence Forum yesterday.

Erin Pizzey, who opened the first shelter in 1971, was at the forum's second conference at Derwent Manor Hotel, in Allensford, near Consett.

She agreed to the role because of the organisation's all-inclusive policy. It offers counselling to men and women and people in abusive same-sex relationships.

The forum's project leader, Maggie Thompson, said: "We are absolutely delighted Erin has agreed to be our patron.

"She started the women's refuge movement and she was a pioneer so it is a fantastic honour for us."

The title of the conference was Children - The Hidden Victims of Domestic Abuse.

It focused on the impact violence and bullying in the home can have on youngsters.

Ms Thompson said: "The service was set up for adults but the children who are involved fall by the wayside. Those who grow up witnessing domestic abuse often suffer long term effects.

"We talk a lot these days about the anti-social behaviour of teenagers but we have to ask where they learn it from.

"If kids are not taught respect in the home they are not going to be able to use it on the streets."