abuse

When young women feel unsafe in a relationship, Lesley Elliott hopes they will do something about it after thinking of her daughter Sophie, who was murdered in 2008 by a former boyfriend.

Evidence of domestic violence is usually counted in bruises, cuts and broken bones. But abuse can destroy its victims without leaving physical scars.

Families buckling under the stress of the festive season are urged to contact the Wakatipu Abuse Prevention Network (WAPN) before tension spirals into emotional or physical assault.

Men are invited to join the global campaign to end violence against women by registering for a $5 buffet breakfast, at the Frankton Ale House, on Thursday.

If you want to peek inside the reality of a relationship based on fear through physical abuse, this is the book to read.