Voices across St Helens will soon be raised against domestic abuse with the launch of a new training and awareness campaign designed to break down the silence around the crime.

The Voices Against Domestic Abuse campaign begins at the end of October – Domestic Abuse Awareness Month – following the successful trial of a package of training around domestic abuse with a cohort of 50 young people aged 16-24 currently engaged with St Helens Chamber.

The training, which teaches participants about the signs and forms of domestic abuse, will also be rolled out virtually to the community, voluntary groups and charities, colleges and sixth forms, council staff and other partners to reach as many people as possible.

Voices Against Domestic Abuse follows campaign work across the Liverpool City Region earlier this year, which highlighted a growing concern both locally and nationally about an increase in domestic abuse during the initial COVID-19 lockdown.

Councillor Jeanie Bell, St Helens Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Safer, Stronger Communities, said: “One of the many heart-breaking things about the coronavirus pandemic is the increased risk and occurrence of domestic abuse during lockdown, often unseen and unheard with many people suffering in silence behind closed doors.

“At a time when we became more dependent on our homes as safe spaces, for many people their homes are where they experienced abuse.

“We must speak up now, especially as we see further restrictions imposed in our borough.

“By encouraging as many residents, businesses and local organisations to join forces and be a voice against domestic abuse and start to openly have the conversation, we can help break down the silence which surrounds the crime.”

The Safe2speak Domestic Abuse Service is free to any resident of St Helens Borough. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse you can phone the team for immediate help and support.

Call: 01744 743200

24-hour helpline: 01925 220 541

If you are not able to call the Safe2Speak helpline for whatever reason you can now text:

Text: 07781472828

You will receive an automated response, which you may wish to delete for your own safety: 'Your concern has been logged and is being processed'

Your text will be picked up Monday to Friday 9-5pm and you will be contacted in 24-48 hours – they can respond by text, phone or email, whatever is the safest for you, so make sure you include the relevant information in your text.

In an emergency, always call 999 and if you are unable to speak, press 55 to confirm an emergency.

For more information and support visit safe2speak.co.uk