A DOMESTIC abuse service which has been the main support agency in Rossendale for more than 20 years has closed.

The STAR Centre, which was established in 1996, provided support to those experiencing domestic abuse including forced marriage.

It was one of a number of services, as part of the Safer Together Consortium, to lose its funding after being overlooked in favour of Victim Support.

It was given a £25,000 funding boost from Rossendale Council in December but was unable to secure further funding.

Campaigners have warned it could mean fewer people coming forward after the loss of the Rawtenstall building.

It comes as Safer Preston announced it will close while SafeNet in Burnley recently closed its outreach services.

However bosses at Victim Support said support will be delivered 'locally in a way that suits them best'. 

Debbie Fawcett, chief executive officer of HARV domestic abuse service, said: “Domestic abuse charities across the county are struggling. They are not the only ones. There will be others in the next 12 months. It is frightening.”

Solicitor Rachel Horman, who is head of the domestic abuse department at Watson Ramsbottom, said: “I believe it will result in fewer victims coming forward which could result in them staying in an abusive relationship and being murdered.

“Talking about this type of abuse is very difficult for victims to do and requires a great deal of trust and confidence between the victim and support worker. To lose this service is a terrible loss to Rossendale.”

Cllr Anne McMahon, whose cabinet post covers domestic abuse services, said: “My concern is that we have lost a building where the service is provided from and it is always more difficult for people in distress if they have to travel out of the area."

Ellen Miller, Victim Services Director at Victim Support said: "Victims of domestic abuse can access specialist support through Lancashire Victim Services.

"The support is delivered locally and victims can access the help they need in a way that suits them best.

"No one should feel alone or unsupported after being the victim of crime and Lancashire Victim Services provides emotional support, practical help and information to anyone who needs it."

Victims of crime including, domestic abuse are advised to call Lancashire Victim Service helpline on 0300 323 0085.