Help for sufferers of domestic abuse

Newbury College students have supported a 'giving tree' to raise awareness of domestic abuse

STUDENTS at Newbury College have been helping to raise awareness of domestic abuse by donating gifts to help people affected by it.

A ‘Giving Tree' has recently been located at the college and decorated with labels and white ribbons, with each label giving a description of a person being supported by A2Dominion.

Several students, staff and members of the public have donated gifts for those supported by A2 Dominion, helping to raise awareness of ‘International White Ribbon Day' and the issues surrounding domestic abuse.

West Berkshire's safer communities partnership manager, Susan Powell, said it was amazing that the students had shown such generosity, adding that it was important for the message to get out about domestic abuse.

She said: “This is all about raising awareness of domestic abuse and the different forms it can take.

“It can be issues around a controlling nature and this is about making people aware.”

The presents were taken from the college on December 16 and distributed by A2Dominion.

If you are a woman experiencing violence or emotional abuse from a partner, and want to talk to someone in confidence about your options, you can contact the following agencies:

Berkshire Women's Aid: (0118) 950 4003

Citizens Advice Bureau: (01635) 552050

Domestic Violence National Helpline: 0808 2000 247

If you are a man experiencing violence or emotional abuse from a partner, call the Men's Advice Line on FREEPHONE 0808 801 0327. The line is open Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 10.00am to 1.00pm and from 2.00pm to 5.00pm or email the service: info@mensadviceline.org.uk or visit the Mens Advice Line online.

Alternatively, contact Thames Valley Police: Berkshire West domestic violence unit on 0845 8 505 505. However, if it is an emergency please dial 999.