GROUPS from across Swindon came together to mark a worldwide day to end domestic violence.

Swindon’s deputy mayor Cllr Garry Perkins was joined by Superintendent Adrian Burt to tie a symbolic ribbon to a tree outside the council’s offices in Euclid Street.

It was part of White Ribbon Day on November 25 – an international day with the aim of stopping violence against women.

Recent figures from the Office for National Statistics revealed that domestic abuse in the UK has risen by 24 per cent in a year.

More than 4,500 domestic abuse in Swindon were reported to the police in 2018-2019. And there were 6,605 reports in Wiltshire this year, up from 5,655 in 2017-2018.

Swindon Borough Council's Domestic Abuse and Violence against Women and Girls manager Lin Williams said: “Domestic abuse doesn’t have to be physical violence, it can be coercive control, financial abuse, sexual assault and stalking.

“It can happen to anyone. It does not discriminate against gender, age, or sexual orientation.

“We have support services available for victims in Swindon. The helpline is available 24 hours.”

Det Insp Simon Childe, lead for domestic abuse at Wiltshire Police, said: “Domestic abuse is everyone’s business and we want to spread the message that there is no excuse.

“If it’s happening to you, are concerned that someone you know is being subjected to abuse, please don’t suffer in silence.

“We understand that you might find it difficult to report your concerns to the police.

“However, there are support services that can also help, or you can always speak to your GP, health visitor or a teacher.”

People from Swindon Domestic Abuse Support Service, Sexual Assault Referral Centre, NSPCC, Turning Point and Stone Water Housing showed their support on the day.

The event ended with stalls in the Civic Offices showcasing the charities and support services available to victims of domestic abuse in Swindon.

A spokesman for Wiltshire Council said: “Domestic violence and abuse is a crime that leaves victims trapped in a cycle of fear and loneliness, too scared to tell anyone what is happening for fear of repercussions from their abuser.”

Anyone seeking for help should call SDASS on 01793 610610 or in case of an immediate danger call 999.