EAST Lancashire is leading the way in helping children caught up in the horrors of domestic violence.

A pilot scheme set up in Blackburn just over two years ago has been hailed a huge success.

The NSPCC's Starting Over Project now forms a blueprint for similar schemes across the country.

News of the success comes as the NSPCC launches a hard-hitting campaign to tackle the number of children affected by family violence.

A survey using information from NSPCC teams nationally shows that around 20 per cent of all child abuse cases have some link with domestic violence.

Dawn Lang, team manager at Blackburn NSPCC, said: "It is very difficult to get specific statistics for the effects of domestic violence on children because it has a hidden agenda.

"In a lot of cases where children are being abused it is a factor but goes uncounted because of other things.

"The NSPCC is more aware now of the impact this violence has on children.

"Even if the child itself is not attacked he or she will be severely affected."

The Starting Over Project was set up in 1996 to offer a wide range of services to mothers and their children who find themselves stranded after escaping a violent home. Fully-trained volunteers are assigned to families to help with everything from finding a home or a college place to offering a "third party" to talk to.

Mrs Lang added: "When the children talk to our volunteers it is often the first time they have spoken about the horrors they have witnessed in their home.

"They are withdrawn and frightened but it helps to talk to someone unconnected to them."

One 14-year-old boy found help through the project after witnessing years of domestic violence.

"His father had both physically and sexually assaulted his mother in front of him and when he tried to intervene he was beaten too.

The project found his mum a college place, helped them sort out a new home and he received counselling.

Mrs Lang added: "These families feel lonely and isolated because they have had to leave everything behind and move to another town.

"They just need some support and that is what we try to give them."

The NSPCC has now launched a national card which lists some useful numbers while a helpline has also been set up on 0800 800 500.

If you need help, or would like to become a volunteer, the Starting Over Project can be contacted on 01254 605560.

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