ONE in four women and one in six men will experience domestic abuse at some point in their lives a conference in Swindon was told.

Organised by High Sheriff of Wiltshire Nicky Alberry, the session brought together representatives from agencies around Wiltshire responsible for protecting and supporting victims of mental and physical abuse within the home.

It was backed by police and crime commissioner Angus Macpherson who said: “Domestic abuse can be devastating for the victim - damaging every part of their and their family's lives. No-one should ever have to go through the horrific ordeal of being abused, controlled or coerced."

Domestic abuse is not just violent or threatening behaviour. It can be psychological or emotional, sexual or financial, controlling and coercive.

The conference heard it can involve anyone, regardless of gender, religion, race or sexuality. It can happen in short and long-term relationships and partners, ex-partners and families.

Mr Macpherson, whose office provides financial support for domestic violence services, said: "The conference was a wonderful opportunity for those decision makers - the agencies involved in protecting and helping victims of domestic abuse - to get together to share how best we can protect those who suffer abuse in relationships, whatever that relationship is.

"I was heartened at the level of collaboration focused on protecting victims and how we all can keep improving those services to those men and women.

"A good example is the excellent work of independent domestic violence advisors based in GP practices and at the Great Western Hospital in Swindon."

He added: “Putting victims at the heart of Wiltshire Police’s work is a key priority in my police and crime plan and I am delighted to be able to commission a number of valuable support services across the county to protect domestic abuse victims and survivors.

“By bringing police, local authorities, health professionals and support services together to share information, identify risks and co-ordinate responses. I hope many more victims will be empowered to get the help they need."

Around 100 delegates from different services were at the event.

Mrs Alberry, said: "It was encouraging to see them coming together to share some incredible ideas and in some cases making new connections to continue and improve the good work that they do.

"I look forward to working with the unitary authorities of Swindon and Wiltshire as well as Wiltshire Police in this area of very important and necessary work.

One of the messages of the conference was that domestic abuse is everyone’s business and people who are suffering or aware of others suffering should report it as soon as they can.

Among the signs people are warned to look out for, as well as violence and threats, are verbal abuse and constant criticism, partners who control where their victims are allowed to go, excessive messages, emails or voicemails or calls all the time to monitor what their partners are doing.

Call 101 with concerns, or dial 999 if there is immediate danger.