A “champion” has been appointed to help tackle the “double scourge” of domestic violence and coercive control in Bolton.

Last week Bolton Council confirmed that it was appointing Cllr Debbie Newall to the role of domestic violence champion.

She replaces Cllr Rabiya Jiva, who sits as council cabinet member for stronger communities, in the role.

Cllr Newall said: “I'm absolutely delighted and very proud to be appointed to this post.

“I look forward to working with the executive member for stronger communities, Rabiya Jiva in this capacity.

Cllr Newall was appointed at a full meeting of Bolton CouncilCllr Newall was appointed at a full meeting of Bolton Council (Image: Newsquest)

“Rabiya has a vast experience in this area, and I'm sure that we will form a solid alliance with our partner agencies and voluntary groups helping affected families in our borough.

“Domestic violence and coercive control are a double scourge in our society, and we must do everything within our power to protect any of our residents who are victims of such abuse.

“I'm really looking forward to the challenges that this role will present but see this appointment as a great honour too." 

Cllr Newall, of Kearsley, was appointed at a full meeting of Bolton Council on Wednesday October 9. 

According to findings from the Crime Survey for England and Wales, a majority of women and nearly a third of men will have experienced domestic violence at some point in their lives.

Their findings released in January found that 68 per cent of women and 32 per cent of men will have experienced domestic abuse at some point in since the age of 16.

In January the SafeLives projected said that using population figures from the latest census data, this equates to there being over 44,000 victims or survivors in Bolton alone.

ALSO READ: Bolton chosen for £1.4M project to 'give voice back' to survivors

ALSO READ: Scheme to help domestic abuse victims in Bolton producing 'really positive results'

ALSO READ: New community hub launched in Bolton

But the police and Bolton Council have a range of measures aimed at tackling the scourge of domestic violence across the borough.

Charities like Endeavour and Fortalice also work to support people at risk of domestic abuse around Bolton.

Cllr Newall’s role will involve working with a range of council agencies, charities and community groups to help improve their response and to support victims.

Anyone at risk of domestic abuse has been urged to call the police on 999 as soon as it is safe to do so.