A VITAL new support service for rape, assault and domestic violence victims has been launched at Southbourne Children’s Centre.

Victim No More is the brainchild of mum-of-two Angela Howard and adrenal stress trainer Malcolm Jones.

Addressing a workshop to launch the project yesterday, Angela, 36, said: “It is all about empowerment and self-support. Our support group is up and running but this is no quick fix.

“It is part of an ongoing therapeutic journey to becoming a survivor. We will always be there; I am a guardian angel. We are not therapists; this is all part of the healing process.”

Malcolm, who uses role play to help victims on the road to recovery, said: “Every victim has to be treated differently; I use my heart and my instincts.”

Domestic abuse can ruin people’s lives. The police estimate that they get a call every minute from someone who is a victim.

The statistics are shocking. Around 85,000 women are raped every year in England and Wales – more than 400,000 are sexually assaulted. One in five women aged between 16 and 59 have experienced some form of sexual violence.

Victim No More runs as a charity and its co-founders are appealing for donations and sponsorship.

They claim that massive cuts to essential women’s services has led to long waiting lists, under-staffed services and unsupported victims.

To find out more information phone 01202 959036 or visit victimnomore.org.uk