A TEAM of rugby players added their support to a campaign tackling domestic abuse and sexual violence.

Members of Bromsgrove Rugby Club lent their support to the White Ribbon Campaign for the fourth year running.

The campaign - also known as the 16 Days of Action - is aimed at promoting awareness of domestic abuse and sexual violence in Worcestershire and across the country.

Martin Lakeman, team captain, said: “Domestic abuse and sexual violence has a devastating effect on the lives of victims, families and children and we collectively need to more to identify, support and sign post victims to services.

“Domestic abuse can happen to anyone but it disproportionally affects women and as men we need to challenge that and do more. I am incredibly proud of my team mates and the rugby club in supporting this campaign.”

The White Ribbon Campaign is led in Worcestershire by the Worcestershire Forum Against Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence.

As part of the campaign members of the public are being asked to sign an online pledge to ‘say no’ to domestic violence.

Mr Lakeman, who is also strategic co-ordinator for The Forum, added: “It’s important for victims out there to understand that you don’t have to be a victim of just violence to be a victim of domestic abuse. Abuse takes many forms, emotional, psychological, sexual, physical, financial and controlling behaviour.

“During The 16 Days of Action we are keen to promote the help and advice that is available in Worcestershire. Nobody should suffer in silence.”

Pledge your support at whiteribboncampaign.co.uk/Worcestershire

l If you need help and support call the Worcestershire 24 hour domestic abuse helpline on 0800 980 3331 or Worcestershire Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Centre’s Helpline on 01905 724514.