POWERFUL images of victims of domestic violence will appear across East Lancashire from today, and are designed to empower women and encourage them to break free from abusive relationships.

The campaign, which addresses all kinds of abuse, from verbal to sexual and financial, sees the posters come to life with ‘talking’ messages that urge the listener to seek help and take action.

People can interact with the posters using a smart phone or tablet, which will allow them to hear audio files featuring reassuring and empowering messages from female survivors.

The campaign has been developed by the police and the county’s wide network of domestic abuse services on behalf of the Safer Lancashire network, with the aim of demonstrating a commitment to connecting with victims and stamping out domestic abuse.

Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw said: “Domestic abuse is a problem which affects all sections of society. It comes in many forms and there is no stereotypical victim.

“Communities across Lancashire need to ensure domestic abuse is not accepted in any form.

“This campaign is aimed at helping women realise there is an alternative to an abusive relationship and they can get help online or by calling the national helpline number.”

Each poster has been designed to reflect a different kind of abuse suffered by women.

Head of Lancashire police’s Public Protection Unit, Det Supt Ian Critchley, said: “Domestic abuse is a huge issue and has a significant impact on the overall health and wellbeing of individuals, families and their communities.”