Launch of new-look domestic abuse website

The Manchester Domestic Abuse Management Group is launching its new website at the Town Hall tomorrow.

The http://www.endthefear.co.uk/ site is aimed at anyone in Manchester who wants to know more about domestic abuse -what it is, who is affected and how they can get free and confidential help.

Domestic abuse blights the lives of families and individuals and can affect men and women, regardless of sexuality, race, income or religion. National research shows that 1 in 4 women and 1 in 6 men will experience abuse at some stage in their lives. It can include emotional, financial and sexual abuse as well as violence or threats of violence.

Councillor Sue Murphy, Manchester City Council lead member of women's issues, said: "Thousands of people from all walks of life are affected by violence in the home. We want to reassure them that help is available and no one should have to put up with domestic abuse. For the first time, information for men as well as women is included on the website along with details about organisations such as Women's Aid, the Male Helpline and the local Domestic Violence Helpline."

The website also includes advice on how to keep safe, as well as information on legal advice, housing, help for children, forced marriages and many other issues.

The site was originally developed by health workers, but it has proved so popular that it has now been updated to cater for anyone who would like to know more about abuse and where to get help. It has already been visited by thousands of people and in April there were over 3,500 visits to the site - a 50% increase on visits in March. The most frequently used pages contain the directory with contact details of many local and national organisations, information on practical help and keeping safe and information in languages other than English.

Sally Bradley, Director of Public Health at Manchester Primary Care Trust said: "Domestic abuse is a shocking problem and has serious effects on the physical and mental health of too many people in Manchester. We want people to seek help and support as early as possible and this website will help anyone affected by abuse find the information and advice they need."

Anyone who needs help can contact:

Women's Domestic Violence Helpline 0161 636 7525 (Monday-Friday 10am-4pm)

National Domestic Violence Helpline 0800 2000 247 (for women 7 days a week, 24 hours a day)

Male Helpline 0808 801 0327 (for men Monday-Wednesday 10am-1pm and 2pm-5pm)

In an emergency call 999.

If you are abusing your partner, you can seek help from Respect on 0845 122 8609.

For further information contact:

Juliet Appleby, Domestic Abuse Co-ordinator for the Manchester Partnership, tel: 0161 234 3177

Val Armstrong, Public Health Manager Manchester Primary Care Trust Mauldeth House Mauldeth Road West Chorlton, Manchester M21 7RL, tel 0161 958 4028

MEDIA CONTACT:

Sally Wheatman, Press Officer, tel: 0161 234 4045