A GOVERNMENT Minister was shown first-hand the work done by a Burnley group supporting women and children suffering domestic abuse.

The Deputy Minister for Women, Barbara Roche MP, was given a tour of Burnley Women's Aid yesterday.

According to a government spokesman the Minister has in the past supported research work into the issues faced by women and children living under the threat of domestic abuse.

The Minister met with women at the centre and was told of the difficulties and challenges they faced in escaping abuse. She also heard tales from survivors who have since taken control of their own lives.

The MP said: "Burnley Women's Aid provides an excellent service to women and their children in Burnley and the wider community. The Government is supporting projects such as this and new government money through the Supporting People Programme is presently funding four full-time support workers in Burnley." A spokeswoman for Burnley Women's Aid said: "A recent government initiative, the Supporting People Programme, now enables Burnley Women's Aid to receive funding to offer housing-related support to women who have experienced domestic abuse and wish to remain safely in their own homes and we work in close partnership with housing associations."

Barbara Roche also visited May Street, in Rosehill and Burnley Wood, to look at the impact of projects funded through the Government's Pathfinder housing and neighbourhood renewal schemes.

The MP, was joined by Burnley MP Peter Pike.