VICTIMS of domestic abuse are being urged to seek help.

The Christmas and New year period can lead to an increase in domestic abuse incidents and many go unreported but a campaign in Greater Manchester is looking to tackle this.

The campaign uses the imagery of a yellow sofa to challenge perceptions of domestic abuse and people are now being encouraged to take the first step of asking for help.

Deputy Mayor Bev Hughes said: “We often think of a new year as an opportunity for new beginnings so there is no better time to take that first step to speak out and get help to break the cycle of abuse. My message to anyone who is suffering abuse is: you are not alone, we are sitting right with you. There is support available, whether you want to involve the police or not.”

One in three woman and one in six men experience some form of domestic abuse and it is not always physical violence.

Other kinds of abuse include controlling what someone wears, their money, where they go and who they talk to.

The Sitting Right With You campaign encourages people to think and look differently about what makes a healthy relationship, using powerful messages such as ‘he checks my phone all the time’, ‘she has control over my bank accounts’, and ‘I can go out with friends when he says it’s ok’.

Mrs Hughes said: “Now is a good time to take a hard look at your own, or a loved one’s relationship. Does your partner control your money, isolate you from family, belittle you in front of friends?

"These are signs of an unhealthy relationship and early help is available to stop things escalating to tragic consequences.”

GMP said domestic abuse is a priority all year round but there is an increase during the festive period because of heightened family tensions, financial worries and excessive drinking.

The force has specially trained officers who support victims and bring people to justice.

Independent Choices offers a free confidential advice service for anyone in Greater Manchester concerned about domestic abuse.

This could be advice for yourself on options or if you are concerned about a friend or loved one.

To follow the campaign look at #SittingRightWithYou on Twitter or go to www.sittingrightwithyou.co.uk to find out more.

If you or someone you care about has been affected by domestic abuse, contact the Greater Manchester domestic abuse helpline on 0161 636 7525.