SHOCKING figures revealing a third of teenage girls suffer unwanted sexual acts in a relationship and a quarter physical violence also ring true in Warrington.

Steve Leach, team leader at The Relationships Centre, said the charity is currently working with around five young people who are experiencing difficulties and a number who have historical issues.

The statistics were released following a survey conducted by the NSPCC and Bristol University.

Thirteen to 17-year-olds took part in the research which found that a quarter of girls had suffered physical violence at the hands of their boyfriend.

Steve said: “The Life Skills Academy/The Relationships Centre can provide specialist support and guidance to victims of domestic violence thorough a range of services such as counselling, practical guidance and advice.”

Staff raise awareness about what a healthy relationship is.

Steve said schools provide sex education as part of the standard curriculum but little in the way of relationship issues.

“Young people invariably can only work from their experience of their parents/care givers’ relationships and if they are unhealthy there is a likelihood that they will duplicate poor behaviour and abuse.

“Poor role models are often the culprit to unhealthy relationships. Re-educating young people regarding values and beliefs often helps to bring about major changes,” he said.

Steve advised teenagers to speak to someone they trust if they feel pressured and do not know where to turn.

Support is also available for young people aged between 13 and 19 who carry out violent attacks or who have shown worrying characteristics.

Call the charity on 246910.