Referrals from the NSPCC helpline to agencies about children living with domestic abuse have risen by almost a quarter in the North West during the pandemic.

The latest figures reveal that the average number of monthly referrals about this issue, since lockdown measures were first introduced, was 23 per cent higher than for the first three months of last year.

A total of 418 referrals were made to police and other agencies in the North East and Cumbria between April and December 2020, with the monthly average rising from 38 before lockdown to 46 in the following months.

Anyone who is experiencing domestic abuse or has concerns that someone else may be can contact the NSPCC’s Helpline for advice on 0808 800 5000, email help@nspcc.org.uk or fill in the online form.