A FLAG was raised last week to support a youth commission campaign for healthy relationships.

The #RaiseaFlag flag was flown from the county council’s flagpole outside the Great Hall in Winchester on June 20.

The ceremony was performed by police and crime commissioner Michael Lane, county councillor Patricia Stallard and Alex from the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Youth Commission, whose campaign aims to help young people recognise the signs of unhealthy relationships.

Research has shown that incidents of domestic abuse rise during England football matches during the World Cup.

Throughout the tournament, the campaign flag is being raised on flagpoles across the Hampshire policing area to draw attention to the issue of unhealthy relationships.

Mrs Stallard said: “We welcome this campaign and are pleased to be supporting #RaiseaFlag. The effect of an unhealthy relationship is far-reaching and extends beyond the individuals involved, often affecting the wider family and local community. With our partner agencies, we are committed to working together to tackle domestic abuse – both physical and emotional. A multi-agency approach is critical in this since abuse of any kind cannot be tackled in isolation.

“Support for individuals and their families can be a lifeline for those who find themselves in an unhealthy relationship and, to this end, we provide a community based, confidential support service for women, men and young people – the Integrated Domestic Abuse Service for Hampshire. This service can be contacted on 03300 165 112 for immediate information and referral to the most appropriate source of ongoing assistance.”

The youth commission is an initiative of Mr Lane, which was set up to ensure that young people had a voice on police and crime issues. He said: “It is sad that major sports competitions like the World Cup can cause a rise in domestic abuse, but the evidence indicates we should be prepared.

“I hope that the #RaiseaFlag campaign will encourage people to be alert to the signs of domestic abuse and unhealthy relationships in their communities.”

For more details on the support available, visit hampshire-pcc.gov.uk/flag.