A new project is being launched to empower and educate communities so more can be done to support those affected by domestic violence and abuse.

As part of the annual national 16 days of activism commencing on Saturday, November 25, Dorset’s County Integrated Domestic Violence and Abuse Service, You First, is delighted to launch its new ‘Isolated Communities Engagement Project’.

As part of the project a specialist team will coordinate and provide guidance to local befrienders and champions who will support and offer information to people with regards to domestic violence and abuse.

You First hopes that this new project will help more people who are experiencing domestic violence and abuse through accessing help and support from their community and the services available.

If you believe you are or know of someone experiencing domestic violence and abuse, then look out for the project’s dragonfly logo, this may be in the form of a pin badge, certificate or window sticker.

Where there is a dragonfly logo visible, that person or member of staff will be trained to provide you with a friendly and informal confidential chat. The befriender or champion will listen and offer you different options.

Commenting on the new Isolated Communities Engagement Project, service manager, Katie Bielec, said: “Making that first phone call and asking for help can appear daunting and frightening.

"You First, a befriender, or a champion will not judge you and are there to listen. We will not tell you what to do but try and give you the information you need and help you through your journey.

"You First work with women, men and children in the community and also within refuge. Our aim is to keep communities together and ensuring people live a life free of fear."

Over the last three years across Dorset, You First, have provided support and advice to more than 3,000 women, men and children directly experiencing domestic violence and abuse and have provided guidance and support to family and friends.

You First have a dedicated team of women and men who are ready to help anyone who is experiencing domestic violence and abuse in Dorset.

The 24-hour free phone number, 0800 032 5204, is available to anyone wanting advice and support. Should you know or suspect anyone is experiencing domestic violence and abuse You First can also give you advice on how to support that person.

If you are immediate danger then you should call 999.