THE message that domestic abuse affects everyone in the family is at the heart of a campaign to raise awareness of the issue.

This week marks national Domestic Abuse Awareness week with police, together with partner agencies, encouraging victims and family members to seek help.

And in Devon, the devastating ripple effect of domestic violence is the focus of this year's campaign.

Domestic abuse has a huge impact on people's lives with one in four women and one in six men being affected by it during their lifetime.

Those behind the campaign in Devon are hoping to reach as many people as possible and change perceptions around domestic abuse.

Acting Chief Constable Paul Netherton said: "Domestic abuse is a very serious issue. Many people know the consequences and repercussions living with the situation can have on the victim, but often there are other family members affected such as children and grandparents.

"It is extremely important we not only encourage victims to report the incidents but also friends and family members who are concerned.

"We always try to offer support and advice to all those involved," he said.

Rachel Martin, from Devon's adva — against domestic violence and abuse — organisation, said: "The effects of domestic violence and abuse are very far reaching.

"We have specially trained people working with the children of parents in abusive relationships but we are sorely aware that they are only the tip of the iceberg.

"In most cases, children don't know how or where to get help — that's if they even recognise that something is very wrong in their family.

"It's vital that we raise awareness of domestic violence — not just to encourage the victims themselves to come forward, but also to encourage relatives, friends and colleagues to seek help on their behalf and on behalf of their children and all those closest to them who may be suffering in silence."

Rachel stressed that domestic abuse can affect anyone.

"It's not just married couples who can be affected by domestic abuse," she said.

"It can affect everyone — young, old, rich, poor, people in relationships who don't even live together, people from same-sex relationships, from different ethnic backgrounds and those with disabilities."

Posters and leaflets advertising helplines and support numbers will be circulated across the two counties this week.

And a number of awareness-raising events will be taking place across the city and in East Devon.

Devon county councillor Jill Owen, chair of the adva partnership, said: "There's an incident of domestic violence every six to 20 seconds in the UK with the police receiving a call every minute.

"That means there are very many families enduring extreme pain and suffering."

Anyone suffering from domestic abuse can contact a domestic abuse officer at Devon and Cornwall police on 08452 777444.