Hollyoaks star, Nikki Sanderson (pictured), has lent a hand to show her support for Knowsley Council and Champs’ ‘No to injury time’ campaign.

‘No to injury time’ aims to raise awareness by illustrating the impact of domestic abuse and the harm it causes, not just physically but also mentally, to the victims, their families and friends. With the World Cup taking centre stage over the next few weeks and the rise in alcohol intake, incidents of domestic violence are expected to increase.

Nikki, who plays Maxine Minniver in the Channel Four show, is currently embroiled in a domestic abuse storyline in the soap as she remains in an abusive relationship with Hollyoaks High head teacher Patrick Blake. Off-screen, Nikki has been working with the Home Office, Rape Crisis and Women’s Aid to raise awareness of domestic abuse.

Nikki explained;

“I am proud to be supporting the ‘No to injury time’ campaign as shockingly, the issue of domestic abuse affects so many people each and every day. Domestic abuse affects both men and women, rich or poor – I’m hoping that this campaign really helps to raise awareness of the issue and helps to de stigmatise the topic. We all have to play a part in making this change happen”

Produced by Lime Pictures, the show which started in 1995, recently won four awards at the British Soap Awards including the much coveted ‘Best British Soap Award’ and understands the importance of tackling real-life storylines.

Matthew Ashton, Director of Public Health for Knowsley said;

“A lot of young people watch Hollyoaks and look up to the actors who appear on the show. It’s great to see the show offering their backing to such an important campaign. We hope that the support of Lime Pictures and Nikki Sanderson will generate awareness of the topic and encourage Hollyoaks viewers to understand that domestic abuse is unacceptable in any form. We want the public to know that there are organisations out there that can offer help, guidance and support.”

If you, a friend or a family member is suffering from, or at risk of domestic abuse, please do contact Knowsley Domestic Violence Helpline on 0800 953 4433 which supports victims of Domestic Abuse. The InPact Programme is for men who want to change their behaviour and they can be contacted on 0151 548 3333. Worst Kept Secret works to prevent domestic abuse in Merseyside. Please visit www.worstkeptsecret.co.uk for confidential advice, support and guidance.