A DROP-IN centre for domestic violence victims has just opened in Huddersfield.

Newsome Net is based in the town centre and is staffed by 10 trained volunteers.

They hope to offer support to the thousands of domestic violence victims in the area.

The latest figures for Kirklees show that 5,889 incidents of domestic violence were reported to the police between April, 2003, and March, 2004.

Domestic violence covers psychological, verbal, emotional and physical abuse.

The new service offers emotional and practical support to female and male victims and their families who live in the Newsome ward.

Heather Frear, Newsome domestic violence project worker with Kirklees Safer Communities Partnership, said: "The drop- in centre provides a safe and confidential environment, where men and women suffering from sexual, physical or emotional abuse can discuss their problems.

"We offer non-judgemental support and information, to make them aware of their options, including the law, telling the police, going to court and how to get in touch with counselling services for adults and children."

She added: "Domestic violence is not always physical abuse.

"It can include systematic putdowns, bullying, and excessively possessive behaviour. It affects women and men from all walks of life and from a wide age range.

"Perpetrators try to exercise power and control over victims by making them feel scared and intimidated.

"Domestic violence can begin with verbal abuse, such as name calling, then threats and move on to violence."

Ms Frear said victims often said that they felt constantly undermined and embarrassed by their partner's behaviour.

That could lead to a complete loss of self- esteem, which stopped them seeking support.

Ms Frear said: "It's not easy for people to label themselves as a victim of domestic violence.

"But we urge people not to wait until a situation reaches crisis point and becomes violent before they contact us for advice."

Staff at Newsome Net, a voluntary organisation, can also arrange practical support and equipment, such as changing locks on doors or windows, installing outside security lighting, a care service phone for urgent help and clothing.

The project has been backed by cash from the Government's Neighbourhood Renewal scheme.

The drop-in centre is run from Gateway to Care, in the former NTL building at 2 Market Street, Huddersfield, from 10am until 2pm every Thursday.

Anyone who would like more information should phone Ms Frear on 01484 414799.