RESIDENTS are being encouraged to get comfortable talking about domestic abuse with the launch of a ground-breaking campaign.

The Sitting Right With You campaign features imagery of a yellow sofa accompanied by challenging messages to get people thinking differently about what domestic abuse is and encouraging victims to ask for help.

One in three women and one in six men experience some form of domestic abuse, but it is not only physical violence. Controlling what someone wears, their money, where they go, who they talk to is just as damaging and is abuse.

Messages including "he checks my phone all the time", "she has control over my bank accounts", and "I can go out with friends when he says it’s ok", encourage people to think and look differently about what makes a healthy relationship.

Tony Lloyd, Greater Manchester Mayor and Police and Crime Commissioner, said: “Domestic abuse has a devastating impact on the lives of victims and their families –tragically sometimes taking a life. With this campaign we want to empower people to take a hard look at their own or a loved one’s relationship and, if it doesn’t sit right with you, make that first step to get advice and support.”

Councillor Rishi Shori, leader of Bury Council and GM lead for police and crime, said: "Domestic abuse comes in many forms and causes misery to countless victims and their families. It is vital that those affected do not feel they have to suffer in silence and that there are many agencies they can contact for help. I hope this campaign will encourage people to speak out and raise awareness of the support that is available. Together we must do all we can to eradicate this stain on society."

Debbie Fold, Assistant Chief Constable at GMP, added: “We work hard all year round tackling domestic abuse and raising awareness of the help that people can access for themselves or someone that they know. By challenging people’s perceptions of domestic abuse and encouraging people to talk about it, like this campaign does, we hope to end the fear of domestic abuse.”

The yellow sofa will be travelling around Greater Manchester over the next few weeks, encouraging local people to talk about domestic abuse and get help and support if they need it.

Follow the conversation at #SittingRightWithYou or visit www.sittingrightwithyou.co.uk to find out more.

If you or someone you care about has been affected by domestic abuse, contact the Greater Manchester domestic abuse helpline on 0161 636 7525.