A vital service which helps victims of domestic abuse rebuild their lives continues to be inundated with calls for support.

The past year "has seen a 30 per cent increase in referrals" to the Waveney Domestic Violence and Abuse Forum (WDVAF) in Lowestoft.

Working to serve families in Waveney impacted by domestic abuse, the forum continues its hard work in supporting thousands of survivors.

Based at the Kirkley Centre the charity supports women, men and families.

And as demand for its services continues to surge, a "well attended" annual meeting has been held.

The Waveney Domestic Violence and Abuse Forum's 12th AGM was held at the Kirkley Centre with "many attendees from a number of organisations" taking part in a variety of discussions.

With three guest speakers at the event - Suffolk Police and Crime Commissioner, Tim Passmore, Jo Critch, from Feathers Futures, and Sue Parker from ‘Find Yourself - they were thanked for "heartfelt" and interesting talks as well as "all the support" they've offered the forum over the years.

With White Ribbons worn by all the speakers at the AGM, the meeting concluded with mayor of Lowestoft, Sonia Barker, thanking the charity for the support that they offer many victims across the district.

Christine Tripp, chair of the trustees, said: "We would very much like to thank all our speakers and to Sonia for showing her support for the charity this year.

"In addition I would like to thank the many organisations, charities and individuals who have supported us.

"With their grants, donations, time and continued funding we have been to support survivors of abuse to rebuild their lives and are able to continue doing so.

"This year has seen a 30pc increase in referrals to us and many other agencies are reporting the same.

"Unfortunately, domestic abuse does not stop over Christmas."