PEOPLE must take a stand against domestic violence, the Bishop of Bolton, has warned.

The Rt Rev Chris Edmondson will join other faith groups, charities, council officials and police officers at a conference tonight to help stop abuse in the home and encourage victims not to “suffer in silence”.

The conference, at the Quebec Hall in Deane, will offer victims of domestic violence the chance to meet specialists and find out what support is available to them.

Bishop Edmondson, who is chairman of Bolton’s faith leader forum, will host the event and stressed how the issue was a major community concern.

He said: “Domestic abuse is everybody’s business, including faith leaders, organisations and community members.

"It’s everyone’s responsibility to end domestic abuse. Freedom from violence and abuse is a basic human right. Domestic abuse has no place in a caring and respectful relationship.

“Together we can respond effectively to domestic abuse and violence and work towards a borough where Bolton residents don’t suffer as victims of such abuse.”

Cllr Derek Burrows, Bolton Council’s cabinet member for community safety, said it was vital that victims did not suffer in silence.

He added: “I really urge anyone affected to come along to the conference and find out more about what help is on offer.”

The conference will be held between 5pm and 8pm at the centre in Quebec Street.

For more information: call 01204 331080.