One-stop shops for victims of Domestic violence are being launched across Sussex.

Agencies including housing, health, police, voluntary sectors and education have joined forces to provide a more comprehensive service.

Drop-in centres called Step Forward are to be set up so victims or people who know someone being abused can get help more easily.

The centres are open to anyone and people can walk in and get information about domestic violence.

The initiative will be launched on Monday to coincide with International Day Against Violence Towards Women.

Assistant Chief Constable Nigel Yeo said: "Tackling domestic violence is a force priority. Half of all murders where the victims are women in Sussex are related to domestic violence."

The force receives 1,000 reports of domestic violence a month but Mr Yeo said this was just the tip of the iceberg.

He said the British Crime Survey reported one in four women have been victims of domestic violence and one in six men.

Councillor David Rogers, chairman of the Sussex Police Authority, welcomed the initiative. He said: "Domestic violence is one of the most cowardly crimes carried out by people in positions of trust and behind closed doors."

The launch also coincides with International White Ribbon Day, which raises awareness about domestic violence.

Sussex Police have placed boxes of white ribbons in their stations for members of the public and staff to show their support.

The campaign has been led by the community safety department at Sussex Police. Events round the county have been planned to raise awareness.

Centres are already open in Eastbourne, Peacehaven, Lewes and Crowborough. Others are planned. For details, call 01444 445907.