Domestic abuse helpline opens for holiday season
A free helpline will offer support to victims of domestic abuse over the Christmas and New Year holidays.
The All-Wales Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence Helpline will operate 24/7 with funding from the Welsh government.
Public Services Minister Leighton Andrews said evidence showed incidents increase over the holiday period.
The helpline - 0808 80 10 800 - is staffed by professionals with extensive knowledge of domestic abuse and sexual violence related issues.
"Victims are often too afraid or too ashamed to speak out which is why dedicated helplines, such as ours in Wales, are invaluable," said Mr Andrews.
In 2013 the helpline managed 27,830 calls, an average of nearly 80 a day.
Calls will be free of charge from all UK landlines and leading mobile networks.
A TV advertising campaign against domestic abuse - Live Fear Free - is also running over the holidays.