POLICE and partner agencies in Devon will launch a new campaign to highlight the lesser-known signs of domestic abuse.

The initiative aims to encourage those at risk – or their friends, family and colleagues – in places like Sidmouth and Ottery, to notice the warning signs and seek help.

The Domestic Abuse: Would You Recognise the Signs? campaign will run as part as Domestic Abuse Awareness Week from Monday to Friday next week.

Detective Chief Inspector, Steve Parker, of Devon and Cornwall Police, said: “We’re all aware of the physical signs of domestic abuse. Sometimes the less obvious signs can be indicators that all is not well in a relationship.

“It’s important to make people aware and understand that abusive incidents are rarely a one-off,;sometimes they may just begin with name calling and then escalate.”

Rachel Martin of Against Domestic Abuse and Violence in Devon, added: “With one person in four suffering domestic abuse at some time in their lives, it is vital that there is an increased awareness of the early warning signs.

“Tragically, there are still too many domestic abuse cases here in the region that end in serious injury and even death.”

Police offer help, support and advice 24 hours a day. In an emergency call 999, or for information and advice call 101, or visit www.devonandcornwall.police.uk.

The freephone National Domestic Violence Helpline can be contacted on 0808 2000247.