The White Ribbon campaign has been launched in Blackpool and charities have teamed up with footballers to encourage women to speak out against abuse – and more importantly, stop it.

Blackpool FC say it is important to join the crusade, pledging to wear white ribbons throughout the campaign.

A spokesman for the Seasiders said: "The White Ribbon campaign is one that Blackpool FC fully supports and we will do everything we can to help eradicate violence against women.

"Every member of the first-team squad highlighted their support for the White Ribbon campaign by signing the pledge to never commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women and we would urge other men to do the same."

The Domestic Abuse Partnership is heading the White Ribbon campaign, which will run until December 10, in Blackpool.

And the team want to highlight the plight of women in Blackpool, who often suffer in silence.

Lynsay Spittal, development and training officer for Blackpool Council's domestic abuse team, said: "There is a prolific amount of domestic abuse in Blackpool.

"In an average class of 30 children, six or seven will be living in a violent home, and the national average is between four and five.

"Since the abuse team was set up in 2005, it has received up to 650 calls per month. This shows the scheme is working, as people are speaking out, but we want the abuse to stop altogether.

"We have a helpline, an outreach team, and the Fylde Coast Women's Aid team do a lot of good work."

Domestic violence can be hitting, emotional and psychological abuse, and even shouting if it makes the victim feel threatened.

Miss Spittal added: "It's not just women who can be affected, but anyone in a household.

"But this campaign encourages men to stand up and say they won't commit abuse, and won't keep silent about it if they know it's going on.

"We are very grateful for the help we have received from Blackpool Football Club, who will help raise the profile."

To support the campaign visit www.whiteribboncampaign.co.uk.

To report domestic abuse call (01253) 596699.