A pilot service for domestic abuse victims in East Sussex has been extended.

Wealden Domestic Abuse Support Service was being launched at the Uckfield Civic Centre today.

The venture, run by charity Crime Reduction Initiatives (Cri), was so successful as a pilot scheme in Hastings it will now help victims in Hailsham, Uckfield, Heathfield, Crowborough and Forest Row.

Project worker Darren Hobden said: "Domestic abuse is a widespread and often hidden crime and one that can leave victims feeling isolated and afraid.

"This confidential and impartial service helps people tackle abuse and empowers them to improve their lives."

Since the start of the scheme in August, workers have dealt with referrals from police, solicitors and other agencies.

Victims are given advice on housing, health and legal issues and can be offered referrals to other specialist agencies that can deal with drink and drugs problems.

The service has been funded by Communities Against Drugs, through the Wealden Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership.

Angela Haines community safety co-ordinator for East Sussex County Council said: "On behalf of the Wealden Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership, I'm delighted to see that we've got this service up and running.

"In my experience, employing a male domestic violence worker is somewhat unique.

"However, Darren's experience so far, both working for the past three years in the drug and alcohol field and since August in his new post, has been that female victims of often successive abusive male partners benefit from working through their problems with a positive male role model."

The launch is part of a month-long initiative to draw attention to the issue of domestic violence across Sussex.

This includes an international campaign day against violence towards women called White Ribbon Day, which takes place on Monday.

That evening, the campaign finishes with a reception for various agencies involved in the issue of domestic violence at the Hilton Hotel, Gatwick.