A charity supported more than 800 victims of domestic abuse in the last year.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead and The DASH Charity have reminded residents that support is available for victims of domestic abuse as part of the international 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign.

The DASH Charity is the council's domestic abuse support service, providing victims with confidential advice and safe accommodation.

In the last year, the charity supported more than 800 adult survivors of abuse in the Royal Borough.

This included tailored support for older people, minority communities, and individuals who identify as LGBTQ+.

The charity also provided tailored support to more than 100 children.

Councillor Catherine del Campo, cabinet member for adults, health, and housing services, said: "There is no excuse for domestic abuse of any form in our borough.

"Support is available 24/7 if you experience abuse or are worried about someone else who may be affected.

"You don’t have to report abuse to the police to access support.

"Help is available whether you need to take the first steps to safety, are fleeing harm, or rebuilding your life after abuse.

"Our teams work closely with The DASH charity, police, and our other partners, and I encourage everyone to take the time to spot the signs of abuse so that they can help increase awareness and encourage more people to reach out to us for help."

Domestic abuse is not always physical and can involve economic abuse, psychological abuse, and controlling and coercive behaviour.

Residents can learn more about different forms of abuse on The DASH Charity’s website.

Monday, November 25, was White Ribbon Day, which specifically encourages men to challenge and address harmful attitudes and behaviour, including invading women’s personal space, making sexist remarks, and catcalling.

If you are experiencing domestic abuse, support is available 24/7 by calling the police on 999 or contacting the National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 2000 247.

If you can’t speak, call 999, listen to the call handler, and answer questions by pushing buttons or coughing.

The Dash Charity helpline on 01753 549865 is open Monday to Thursday from 9.30am to 3pm and on Fridays from 9.30am to 12pm.

The council’s housing service also provides advice and support, including emergency safe housing for victims of domestic abuse.

All libraries in the Royal Borough are designated safe spaces, and library staff are trained to discreetly seek help for victims.

Residents can see the locations of other local safe spaces in the borough at uksaysnomore.org/safespaces.