GWENT Police will wear tomorrow white ribbons to support eliminating violence against women.

And in Newport staff from Newport Women's Aid will hand out white ribbons to men in the city centre to mark the international day for the elimination of violence against women.

Service manager Julie Guile said: "We'll be talking to men about what wearing the white ribbon means; that it's a commitment to not condoning or staying silent about abuse of women.

"In Britain a woman is abused every six seconds and two women a week are murdered by a partner of ex-partner."

Gwent Police recorded 8,483 domestic abuse referrals in the past 12 months, an average of 23 domestic abuse referrals a day.

Gwent Police, Deputy Chief Constable Carmel Napier explained why police were supporting the day: "Wearing the white ribbon is about challenging the acceptability of domestic abuse, helping victims to break the silence, speaking out about what is often a taboo subject and encouraging a united front against violence and abuse in the home.”

She added: "Domestic abuse comes in many forms, whether it is physical, mental, financial or emotional. Women are more likely to be at risk in the home than outside of it.

"Men can also experience domestic violence and the same advice applies to them.

"If you are in an abusive relationship, don’t suffer in silence, help and support is available to you.”

Anyone who knows of domestic abuse taking place should contact Gwent Police on 01633 838111 or call the All Wales Domestic Abuse 24 hour helpline on 0808 8010 800.

Anyone wanting more information on Newport Women's Aid can call 01633 840258 or visit the office at 56 Stow Hill.