A NEW phase of a Government campaign to combat teenage relationship abuse launched yesterday 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: “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.”

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.”

Teenagers can get help and advice by visiting thisisabuse.direct.gov.uk/ School and college heads who would like Ms Moyles to speak to their students should call Swindon Women’s Aid on 01793 864 984.