Victims of domestic violence and abuse come from all walks of life.

Women, men, the elderly, lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgender and ethnic minority groups can all be affected.

One in four women and one in six men will be affected by domestic abuse in their lifetime and on average there will be 35 incidents before the abuse is reported to the police.

A Stonewall lesbian survey showed that 80 per cent never reported incidents to the police and 39 per cent didn't know where to go for support.

A total of one in four gay men will be affected by domestic abuse, as will one in four lesbian women.

There are often a number of specific issues affecting those who aren't traditionally seen as being likely to be affected by domestic abuse.

Below are the thoughts of people who have been the victims of domestic abuse. All names have been changed to protect their identities.

Paul said: "Being a male victim of domestic violence I know that this happens to both sexes and it is good that people recognise our needs and support us.

"I am now addressing the problems that I had been hiding from and am now challenging them.

"If more men knew there was support available they wouldn't have to suffer alone."

Carol said: "I felt that I was giving off signals that I was being abused and needed help, but no-one seemed to pick up these signs.

"I wasn't allowed any friends and was so scared about doing something wrong in the kitchen, such as leaving a finger mark on ‘his' toaster that I ended up never eating at home.

"When he broke my ankle and I was absolutely terrified, I cried with relief when the police arrived as I knew I was now safe."

Sue, who is in a same sex relationship, said: "I didn't tell anyone what was happening because at the time I didn't see it as anything other than she was really angry and I'm sure she didn't mean to take it out on me.

"I was worried that if I tried to leave that I would be outed and, although I wasn't ashamed about this, I wanted to tell my family in my own time."

Everyone who is affected by domestic abuse can access help and support, whatever their gender or sexual orientation.

For more information contact Women's Aid 24 hour helpline on 0808 2000 247, the Male Victim Helpline on 0808 801 0327, the Mankind local helpline on 01276 469225, Broken Rainbow (for LGBT domestic abuse issues) on 08452 604460 or Action on Elder Abuse on 0808 808 8141.

In an emergency always call 999.

For more information about policing in your area visit the local policing pages of Hampshire Constabulary at www.hampshire.police.uk.