IT IS A CAMPAIGN that hopes to send a clear message - that domestic abuse is unacceptable.

People from Hampshire are being urged to show their support against domestic violence as part of the White Ribbon Day initiative.

We are looking for our readers to send a message and take part in White Ribbon Day, which takes place today.

It is being coordinated by the city council and supported by the Daily Echo and is designed to show widespread support for the victims of domestic abuse.

Last year in Southampton there were 5,404 domestic violence incidents reported to police and 739 people were identified as being at high risk of serious physical harm or death.

Hampshire Constabulary is committed to tackling domestic abuse in all relationships. We work with our partners on a daily basis to support and safeguard victims but also take appropriate positive action to deal with offenders.
 
Hampshire police operational lead for domestic abuse, Detective Chief Inspector Tim Rowlandson said:   "We know that speaking out about domestic abuse is not easy.

"There are often months or years of physical and emotional abuse before someone feels able to come forward and speak with the Police or one of the partners we work with.
 
“Our aim is to do all we can to make sure their courage to speak out is never in vain.

"We work with a wide range of agencies to provide callers with the support they need to stop the cycle of abuse and start changing their lives. 
 
“Hampshire Constabulary has also been recently recognised for its innovative approach in dealing with first time offenders who are given a police caution. Project CARA, run with the assistance of the Police and Crime Commissioner and the Hampton Trust, works to reduce the chances of further offences being committed and has recently won an award from the Howard League of Penal Reform and the College of Policing.

"In the first 12 months of operation the project has shown that those involved in the scheme are 46 percent less likely to re-offend.”

You can take part by printing a special placard on A3 paper and writing your name, organisation and a short message to show your support.

Send us a picture of yourself and message to picdesk@dailyecho.co.uk so it can be included in a White Ribbon Day gallery.