A NEW phase of a Government campaign to combat teenage relationship abuse launched today has been welcomed by the Police and Crime Commissioner for Wiltshire and Swindon, Angus Macpherson.

Mr Macpherson is strongly committed to reducing all forms of domestic abuse.

Earlier this year he awarded a grant from his Innovation Fund to Swindon Women’s Aid to recruit a young people’s independent domestic violence adviser.

Natasha Moyles was appointed and, with Olwen Kelly, Director of Swindon Women’s Aid, recently met Mr Macpherson to discuss the role.

Ms Kelly said: “It is estimated that 750,000 children are living in a violent household where they may experience or witness domestic abuse.

"This can have a detrimental effect on young people and can normalise abusive behaviour so that, when they themselves get into relationships, they are more likely to become victims or perpetrators.

“Natasha will work directly with 16 to 25 year olds who may be experiencing abuse within their own relationships.

“She will also be working in schools to educate young people about what a healthy relationship should look like and how to avoid becoming caught up in an abusive relationship.

“We are extremely thankful that we have a Police and Crime Commissioner who takes domestic violence seriously.”

Ms Moyles said: “I am really excited about the role. It is about working proactively with young people to prevent them finding themselves in abusive relationships.”

Mr Macpherson said: “Increasingly I see my role of Commissioner as being an advocate for victims. Victims and survivors of domestic violence are an important part of my agenda.

“I feel that children should be educated at school about relationships and life skills as part of the curriculum.

“I am pleased that, with the appointment of Natasha, we now have in place a service that schools can call on for expert advice.

“I would also like to commend the Home Office for launching a new phase of their teenage relationship abuse and teenage rape prevention campaigns.

“I think they are right to bring these two separate campaigns together into one campaign under the banner of ‘This is Abuse’.

“Hopefully, by raising awareness among young people about what is normal and what is not, we can break the cycle of domestic violence.”

Teenagers can get help and advice by visiting http://thisisabuse.direct.gov.uk/

School and college heads who would like Natasha Moyles to speak to their students should call Swindon Women’s Aid on 01793 864 984.