A GROUP of young people from Newport have set up a domestic violence charity after some of them suffered from abuse themselves.

Steven Payne, 18, from Bettws, along with his brother Michael and colleagues Joanne Lloyd, Lucy James and Ryan Brice have come together to set up the charity aiming to tackle the issue across Gwent.

Several other members wish to remain anonymous to help carry out their work in the community.

Mr Payne decided to set up the charity as he wanted to help others in a similar position.

“Not many people know that there is help and support out there and I want to help raise awareness and give people the right information,” he said.

“Lots of people think domestic abuse is just physical but it is also mental, sexual and financial.

“Lots of people also say it is just women that go through it but it is men as well.

“I want people to know you can get through it and come out the other side.

“Some of the other people working with me on this charity have gone through it themselves.”

Mr Payne said this was important in order for his staff to be able to relate to victims of domestic abuse through their own experiences, providing a new level of support and understanding.

The charity is now waiting for certificates to be officially registered and hopes upcoming fundraising events will help them to raise over £5,000 needed to open a drop-in centre in Newport city centre.

“We want to raise further awareness by going into schools and other youth organisations as well,” he said.

Mr Payne’s brother Michael plans to take part in a sponsored skydive and produce a track for awareness with a powerful music video behind it.

So far the charities Facebook page has reached over 3,100 people, the website has had over 5,000 page requests.

Services include phone support, counselling and home visits.

“We urge people to come forward to receive help,” Mr Payne added.

For more information visit help4alldomesticabuse.btck.co.uk or call 07983 924995.