Campaign to tackle domestic violence

PERPETRATORS of domestic abuse in Hull are to be given confidential support to tackle the root of their problem.

Hull Teaching Primary Care Trust (PCT) is launching a scheme to try to reduce the rising number of offences in the city.

The initiative, which will include a new hotline – to be made available locally later this year – is the first of its kind in the UK.

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Men will be given the chance to explain why they are abusing their partner in the hope talking about it will help them change their behaviour.

It will work with perpetrators, or potential perpetrators, of domestic violence to help them change their behaviour.

A 27-year-old Hull man, who served a 12-month sentence for domestic violence, today backed the move.

He said: "I want anyone who is thinking about doing what I did to get help straight away.

"This new scheme could help so many people. I wish it had been available to me."

Latest figures show an estimated 24,690 women are affected by domestic abuse in Hull every year, as well as 18,468 children.

However, of these, only 6,000 cases are ever reported to the police.

The current national hotline number to call for offenders or potential offenders is 0845 122 8609.

If you are the victim of domestic violence, call Women's Aid on 0808 2000 247.