With a new university and college year beginning and Freshers' events taking place across Staffordshire, students and young people are being reminded that help and support is available for anyone experiencing domestic abuse.
Staffordshire County Council works with a range of partners and agencies to ensure people across the county can access specialist support when they need it.
A programme of awareness events, information stands and talks at colleges and universities has been organised by New Era, one of the county's domestic abuse services, to help students understand what healthy relationships look like, what are the signs of abuse and where to find help.
School staff, teachers and college lecturers are also being encouraged to remain vigilant for signs that young people may be affected by domestic abuse and to ensure they are connected to appropriate support services.
Domestic abuse can take many forms and is not limited to physical violence. Young people may experience Controlling or coercive behaviour, Isolation from friends or family and Excessive monitoring through phones or social media.
Anthony Screen, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Resilience at Staffordshire County Council, said: "Domestic abuse is a devastating crime that can affect anyone, including young people who may be experiencing their first serious relationship.
"Abuse is not always physical. It can involve controlling behaviour, intimidation, isolation and manipulation that can leave victims feeling trapped and frightened.
"Students arriving in Staffordshire may be away from home and unfamiliar with local services, so we want them to know that support is available. Nobody should suffer in silence. If you or someone you know feels unsafe, please reach out for help."
Research also shows that young people are disproportionately affected by domestic abuse. Recent figures from the Office for National Statistics found that people aged 16 to 19 were among the age groups most likely to experience domestic abuse, with around 18% reporting abuse in the previous year. Young adults aged 20 to 24 also experienced significantly higher rates than older age groups.
Melina Hancox, from New Era, said: "Many young people do not immediately recognise the signs of domestic abuse. Behaviour such as constant checking up on someone, demanding access to their phone, controlling who they see, or making them feel afraid can sometimes be mistaken for care or affection when it is actually abuse.
"That's why it is so important that we raise awareness among students and young people. By speaking directly with student groups, we can help people understand what a healthy relationship looks like and reassure them that support is available if something doesn't feel right.
"At New Era, we provide practical and emotional support to help people stay safe, recover from their experiences and rebuild their confidence and independence. No one should feel they have to face abuse alone."
New Era is jointly commissioned by Staffordshire County Council, the Office of the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner and Stoke-on-Trent City Council.
Further information, including support for people concerned about their own behaviour and wanting to make positive changes, is available at www.new-era.uk. Anyone in immediate danger should call 999.
