Women suffering from domestic violence or abuse can access help and support thanks to a new service.

New Leaf Support, a charity that provides a safe house and professional advice for victims, will open a one-stop shop for women in need called Marda – Multi-Agency Response to Domestic Abuse.

Founder Hasmita Reardon said: “We can support them with counselling, mental health, debts, housing, legal advice and refuge.

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“Some women might even just want to chat – and that’s what we’re here for.”

New Leaf Support’s team are trained and have experience of dealing with scenarios including stalking, forced marriages, human trafficking and child protection.

People who have suffered abuse are referred to the charity for support.

Others make contact via its Facebook page or by calling its helpline.

Hasmita said: “Domestic abuse referrals are increasing. That’s why we’ve decided to offer this service face-to-face so we can support victims in a much more personal way.

“We will also be in a better position to identify anyone needing our safe house or refuge.”

Unlike some refuges where there is an age limit for older teenagers, New Leaf Support helps mothers and children regardless of how old they are.

It also continues to aid families away from the refuge, to help make permanent changes.

The Marda sessions will be at Sittingbourne’s Jobcentre, in Roman Square, from 10.30am to 12.30pm. They will start on Wednesday, February 14, and continue on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month.

"This may be the first time a client has disclosed abuse and it’s important a counsellor is present" - Hasmita Reardon

One of the main benefits of the one-stop shop, Hasmita said, is that a counsellor will be at each session offering support to anyone wanting to escape domestic abuse.

She said: “This may be the first time a client has disclosed abuse and it’s important a counsellor is present.

“Also, as we are located at the Jobcentre, we can make appointments with the work coaches there for benefit advice, debts or universal credit.”

For more information about New Leaf Support, visit newleafsupport.org, call 01795 608028, email helpdesk@newleafsupport.org, or search Domestic Abuse – New Leaf Support on Facebook.