Cheshire Police has joined forces with Cheshire East Council for its latest campaign to tackle domestic abuse.
The 'Speak Out' campaign, which was launched to coincide with Valentine's Day, urges victims of domestic abuse, and those who are concerned that someone close to them is experiencing domestic abuse, to break their silence.
As part of the campaign, Cheshire Police is working alongside its partners within the local community to highlight the vital support services that are available for victims.
Cheshire East Councillor Roland Domleo, cabinet member with responsibility for adult services, said: "Speaking out can be hard. Victims fear they won't be believed or that things will get worse. That is why we train all frontline staff in Cheshire East to understand domestic abuse and to know what to do to keep people safe.
"We want victims to know that it is not their fault and they can get their lives back. They will not be judged and they will not be alone in doing what it takes for them and their children to be safe.
"Victims can tell anyone they trust, whether that be their GP, health visitor, local Children's Centre, housing officer, probation officer, community support officer, their children's head teacher or Council Contact Centre. Or they can contact a local specialist service directly.
"Speaking out can be even more difficult for people from minority communities – those whose first language is not English, people who have a disability or are older, people who are in homosexual relationships or men who are experiencing abuse."
Councillor Andrew Knowles, chairman of the Cheshire East Domestic Abuse Partnership, added: "Domestic abuse is never acceptable. Everyone deserves help that is appropriate to their circumstances and that is what our partnership is committed to providing.
"Speaking out is more than the first step. It is the opening of a door on a new, safe, supported future. I would strongly encourage anybody affected to give us a call."
The Cheshire East Domestic Abuse Family Safety Unit can be contacted on 01244 613532 and the Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Centre can be contacted on 01925 221546. In an emergency always dial 999.
If you are a victim of domestic abuse, are worried that someone close to you is experiencing domestic abuse or are concerned about your own behaviour please contact Cheshire Police on 0845 458 0000 or report it online. In an emergency always dial 999.
