COUNCIL offices across Wirral will glow orange on Saturday as part of a Merseyside-wide campaign raising awareness of domestic abuse. 

The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls heralds the start of a 16-day campaign of activism on the issue, and people are urged to show their support by sharing social media posts with the ##endvaw.

Wallasey Town Hall, Birkenhead Town Hall, and the Floral Pavilion, New Brighton are among council offices across Merseyside in support of the United Nations' campaign from 5-7pm and readers are urged to wear orange to show solidarity.

Saturday is also White Ribbon Day, when people are asked to wear a white ribbon and take the White Ribbon Pledge to end male violence against women.

Earlier this year, the director of public health's annual report Domestic Abuse: Let's Make A Difference raised awareness of Wirral's higher than average rates of police-recorded domestic abuse, and said it was important to work collaboratively to tackle the problem.

An awareness raising campaign across Merseyside will focus on how people need to talk about what is often a hidden problem and seek help.

Cllr Anita Leech, Wirral's pledge champion around domestic abuse, said: "The UN estimates that one in four women in the UK annually suffers from domestic violence and two are killed each week.

"Orange is the official colour of the campaign, symbolizing a brighter future free from violence, and we're urging people show their support. Knowing you’re not alone can be first step towards seeking help.

"I'm sure many people will be behind the campaign and showing their support by sharing social media posts."

The campaign will be launched by Liverpool DJ Ellie Phillips, who last year publically spoke out about her own experiences of abuse.

The launch takes place on Friday morning at 10.30am in Derby Square, Liverpool.