A living library, stalking conference and a comedy gig will all mark the county’s public services taking a stand against domestic violence.

Councils and Sussex Police are hosting a number of events over the next month to raise awareness about domestic violence.

Events will begin today, on the official White Ribbon Day, with awareness stands and events being held in Eastbourne, Polegate, Hailsham and Battle.

Brighton and Hove City Council have also organised a number of events including a Living Library event of people affected by domestic abuse at the Jubilee Library on Thursday, a conference on stalking at the University of Sussex on Wednesday and a Charity Chuckle comedy night at the Komedia in support of local charities Rise and Survivors’ Network on December 9.

Brighton and Hove Albion is also marking the 16 Days of Action campaign to end violence against women and girls by signing up to the White Ribbon Pledge as part of its match day activities on November 29.

More than 16,000 women experienced domestic violence and abuse, sexual assault or stalking in Brighton and Hove last year with the individual, economic and social cost to the city is estimated to be £143 million per year.

Sussex Police has seen a 34% increase in recorded domestic abuse crimes in the past year.

Between April 2013 and October 2013, the force recorded 4326 crimes of domestic abuse compared to 5780 for the same period this year.

The force believes the increase is evidence that victims are feeling increasingly confident and reassured to report these incidents.

For more information on events taking place visit brighton-hove.gov.uk or sussex.police.uk.

Information about domestic violence and abuse is available from Brighton & Hove RISE Domestic Abuse Helpline on 01273 622822 or the Survivors' Network Helpline on 01273 720110.