Last year one in 15 women, and one in 33 men, experienced domestic abuse at the hands of their partner or former partner.

The Citizens Advice ‘Talk about Abuse’ campaign encourages friends and family to identify those at risk and where to seek help.

1. Pay attention to changes in behaviour

Abuse isn’t always easy to spot. Even if it’s physical it may be hidden. Domestic abuse is about one person seeking to control another, be it physical, emotional, financial, psychological or sexual. Changes in behaviour such as going out less, or seeming frightened, could be indicators of domestic abuse

2. Start a conversation

When a person decides to tell someone that they’re experiencing abuse, they are most likely to tell someone close to them. Don’t assume that someone else is better placed to help them. Make sure you are not overheard.

3. Listen, support and believe

If your friend does confide in you, help them understand that they are not alone and let them know where they can turn to for more support. You want to show them they are believed and raise their confidence to make it more likely they seek specialist help.

4. Suggest further help

There are many places to turn for further help, both for you and your Friend. Call the 24-hour National Domestic Violence Freephone 0808 2000 247 or online nationaldomesticviolencehelpline.org.uk.

Remember, abusers are dangerous people always call the police if you think anyone is in danger. Citizens Advice has online advice about dealing with domestic abuse - See citizensadvice.org.uk/talkaboutabuse for more information.

Free, confidential advice and help is available from South Lakes Citizens Advice Bureau on any aspect of debt, consumer problems, benefits, housing, employment and any other problems. We have various outlets across South Lakeland and can also give advice over the phone – telephone 015394 46464 for an appointment and help.