MAYORESS Mrs Shirley Lloyd hosted the joint launch of Zero Centre women's refuge in Birkenhead and Wirral's Zero Tolerence initiative.

To mark the occasion, 500 balloons were released - one for every woman who has sought refuge or contacted the Rape and Sexual Abuse Centre in the last year.

Zero Centre, in Laird Street, is a confidential drop-in advice and support service for women and children who have experienced abuse in the home.

It has 15 voluntary support workers and a rota of voluntary solicitors to cope with the constant flow of people.

Co-ordinator Jan Purssell says: "The centre is proving very successful, with seven people coming to us each day. We are empathic, sensitive and non-judgemental. We want to empower women who come to us, not just support them."

The organisation was set up with National Lottery funding and now relies on charity money. It is open from 10am-3pm each weekday and can be contacted on 670-1528. The same number can be used by anyone who wishes to volunteer.

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