Published: Tuesday, 16th March, 2010 12:00pm

Abusive teens targetted in hard-hitting ads

by Lauren Everitt

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A NATIONAL campaign highlighting the signs and consequences of domestic abuse has been supported by the Royal Borough.

The campaign, aimed at 13 to 18-year-olds, aims to raise awareness of abusive teenage relationships and challenges young people to stop abusive behaviour or get help.

Posters, radio and TV adverts attempt to empower young people to make the decision to avoid violent behaviour by encouraging them to recognise abuse.

Cllr Colin Rayner, lead member for community safety, said: "Abusive, violent or controlling relationships are not normal and are not acceptable in the Royal Borough. The person carrying out the abuse is the person who is responsible for their behaviour and breaking the law, not the victim."

The adverts will run until Sunday, March 14. Research published in 2009 by the NSPCC revealed that violence is shockingly prevalent in teenage relationships.

Sophie Wing-King, Berkshire East domestic abuse co-ordinator, said: "These results, whilst worrying, are potentially less entrenched so there may still be time to influence teenagers and this campaign will help.

"Evidence also shows that coercive and controlling behaviour is more likely to escalate into violence and lead to repeat instances of violence, so it is important to try to break this pattern before young people become repeat victims and offenders."