A ZERO tolerance campaign against domestic violence has been launched in Wirral.

The "Be a Lover Not a Fighter" initiative comes as shocking statistics reveal 90% of domestic abuse incidents in the North West are witnessed by children.

Wirral Council is backing the campaign and has pledged to work towards zero tolerance of domestic abuse, and is behind a number of successful support schemes that target people who suffer or who have suffered domestic abuse, and their families.

Globe readers are being urged to pledge their support by taking part in the #hearthands twitter campaign by tweeting a photograph of themselves forming the hearthands logo.

Liscard Labour councillor Janette Williamson is leading the drive against domestic abuse.

She said: “Wirral’s repeat rate of high risk domestic abuse is well below the national average, and fortunately, people are also now more likely to report abuse, which indicates increased confidence in services.

“However, it is still remains largely a hidden problem and there is still much work to be done.

“We know that domestic abuse has a lasting effect on families and particularly on children into later life, which is why working towards zero tolerance is so important.”

Along with her colleague George Davies, Wirral’s cabinet member for housing and communities, she will be hosting a drop-in event at Birkenhead’s Pyramids Shopping Centre on Thursday, March 3, from 10am to 4pm.

“Domestic abuse has significant psychological consequences for everyone involved," said Cllr Davies.

“It’s crucial we deliver this campaign to make people aware of the issue, what people are going through and how they can make a difference.”

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse contact Wirral’s family safety unit on 0151 604 3567, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.

Wirral Council also has a 24-hour helpline 0151 643 9766.

For more on the campaign visit lovernotfighter.org.uk