A NEW voluntary service is telling domestic abuse victims: Don't suffer in silence.

The plea comes from Newsome Net, a drop-in service near Huddersfield bus station.

Project worker Heather Frear said: "I have come across cases where victims just don't expect to be taken seriously because to the outside world things look fine.

"At Newsome Net we do believe you, we will listen and give advice and support."

Staff can arrange for equipment to be installed such as a care service telephone for urgent help, new locks on doors and windows, and security lights.

Ms Frear explained the victim may not regard what's happening as abusive.

"But there are unseen mental scars from being undermined, criticised, put down and made to feel inferior and stupid.

"Victims lose all self confidence and feel dependent on the abuser."

She said: "We acknowledge how difficult it can be to seek support but we would urge people not to wait until a situation reaches crisis point before contacting us."

Newsome Net, originally formed in Newsome, is based at the former NTL building, now Gateway to Care, at 2 Market Street in Huddersfield town centre.

Opening hours are from 10am to 2pm every Thursday.