Annette Bramley holds a picture of her daughter Holly. PHOTO: Iliffe Media

Annette, whose other daughter Emma died in a skydiving accident in 2010, said: “It is the least I can do after Holly’s death.

“Any help that will save somebody’s life is imperative.

“I am also a survivor of domestic abuse.”

Neil Bontoft, Lincolnshire Domestic Abuse Partnership (LDAP). PHOTO: Iliffe Media

Throughout the event — on Thursday November 27 — expert speakers gave presentations about the ‘epidemic of domestic abuse that we all face in society’ as statistics show one in four women and one in six men will be affected in their lifetime.

Neil Bontfot, Lincolnshire Domestic Abuse Partnership, said: “This event is a reminder that there is help and support out there.

“Domestic abuse is about fear, control and intimidation which happens at home.

The event took place at Holbeach Hub. PHOTO: Iliffe Media

“Going home should be a safe place and a sanctuary.”

A video showed the differences in reaction from onlookers when witnessing different genders being verbally and physically abused in a crowded street.

Mr Bontoft said: “40% of domestic abuse is directed at men.

“Anyone can be a victim.

Neil Bontoft, Lincolnshire Domestic Abuse Partnership. PHOTO: Iliffe Media

“Violence is violence no matter who it is aimed at.”

Information was shared on how to recognise warning signs such as love bombing, gas lighting and isolation as well as highlighting how technology plays a part in domestic abuse.

Mr Bontoft added: “A good relationship is based on trust.

Mandy Baxter, Boxes of Hope, Holbeach. PHOTO: Iliffe Media

“It is never the victim’s fault. The perpetrator made the choice to abuse.”

Natalie Watkinson, from the domestic abuse partnership, talked about how employers can make the workplace a safe space for employees to contact domestic abuse services.

Visitors to the event were also able to speak to frontline services in person.

One person who attended the event was magistrate Des Butler.

He said: “It has been a fantastic turnout.

“In terms of family magistrates we are very keen on learning as much as we can about domestic abuse.”

Detective Chief Inspector Rachael Cox is the lead for Domestic Abuse at Lincolnshire Police, which has received reports of around 10,557 domestic abuse incidents.

She said: “We are here to protect people and will continue to do all we can to raise awareness of what abuse is and to make sure everyone knows how they can get help even if they don’t feel they can approach the police to report yet.”

Where to get help

Lincolnshire Police’s guide on what to do when faced with cases of domestic abuse, stalking, harassment or other sexual offences:

If you or your children are in immediate danger you should always call 999. If it’s not an emergency, you can call on 101 or report online.

You can also access help from specialist domestic abuse services – including the Lincolnshire Domestic Abuse Specialist Service.

The National Domestic Violence Helpline is a 24hr Freephone available on 0808 2000 247 operating 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

If you are a child or young person and domestic abuse is happening in your home or relationship, Childline is available on 0800 1111.

Safe spaces are available in UK pharmacies including Boots, Superdrug, Morrisons and many independent pharmacies. Go to the healthcare counter and ask to use the safe space where you can access support.

If you are abusive, get help. Call the Respect helpline on 0808 802 4040 or use webchat on the Respect website.

The charity Ending Domestic Abuse Now (EDAN) has also helped more than 13,000 survivors in the last year alone.

The Lincolnshire Domestic Abuse partnership (LDAP) sits within the Lincolnshire County Councils Adult Care and Community Wellbeing Directorate and forms part of the overarching Lincolnshire response to Safeguarding, Public Protection and Community Safety.

What do you think about this issue? We’re keen to hear your views on this topic. Feel free to post them below or email your thoughts to news@lincsonline.co.uk