Arun vigil shines a light on the victims of abuse

A poignant candlelit vigil was held at the Arun Civic Centre in Littlehampton, to mark the launch of the “Stop Domestic Abuse, Start Your Life” campaign aimed at highlighting where victims can receive much-needed support.

The service was organised by the Safer Arun Partnership, and saw members of the group, alongside district councillors, the chairman of the Western Sussex Magistrates’ bench, Worth Services and Victim Support, stand side-by-side lighting symbolic candles.

Arun chairman Ann Smee, pictured below, gave a short speech, reminding those attending about the difficulties and violence many victims faced, on a daily basis.

Speaking after the event, Mrs Smee said: “We must do all we can to raise awareness of the support available to those affected by domestic abuse.

“It is understandable that they may feel too frightened and demoralised to seek help, but the abuse will not end unless they do.

“I hope this campaign will empower those people to make contact with the organisations we are highlighting and get the support they so badly need.”

The Safer Arun Partnership is working with local services and charities to offer support and advice to victims. It also aims to raise awareness that domestic abuse is not always about violence, but can also include intimidation, humiliation, and psychological, financial, emotional and sexual abuse.

Posters to highlight the campaign will be on display in bus shelters across the Arun district in December, and leaflets will be widely distributed.

Further information and contact details are available on the White Ribbon Campaign web site tinyurl.com/helpabuse or the national domestic abuse 24-hour phone helpline 0808 2000 247.