A WOMEN'S charity is offering advice to sufferers of domestic violence following the murder of mum-of-two Samantha Gosney.

This week the Star reported that 23-year-old Adam Brettle was jailed for life for the murder of his girlfriend Samantha.

The court heard how Samantha, 29, had been a victim of domestic violence at the hands of Brettle, who killed the mum-of-two by stabbing her 21 times in November.

St Helens based women's charity Chrysalis Centre for Change on Peter Street is offering advice to sufferers of domestic violence urging them to get help.

READ: Adam Brettle jailed for life after murdering girlfriend in frenzied knife attack

A spokesperson for the charity said: "Part of the support offered at the Chrysalis Centre for Change is around domestic abuse.

"Whatever the nature of the abuse; physical, emotional, financial, sexual, or psychological, the abuse is not your fault; you didn't bring it on yourself, you didn't cause it to happen, you are not worthless, or many of the other names you may have been called.

"You are important, and will be listened to, believed, and slowly and gently supported through the situation, without judgement.

"Whether the abuse was many years ago, or currently happening, if it is causing you to suffer now, please know that you are not alone.

"Domestic abuse does not discriminate, it affects all ages, nationalities, walks of life, it can be a single incident, or go on for many years. We want you to know there really is life after abuse.

"We have helped many women over the years deal with the impact of abuse, rebuild their self-worth, confidence and self-esteem.

"We also work alongside organisations who provide practical support around domestic abuse to put in place physical safety where needed.

"All the support we offer is highly confidential."

The message was echoed by the National Centre for Domestic Violence, which said: "We are saddened to hear of yet another domestic violence homicide and our condolences go to the family and friends of Samantha Gosney.

"Domestic violence is an horrendous often under reported crime that knows no boundaries and has no place in today's society.

"Domestic violence is rarely an isolated incident, it can typically start as a pattern of abusive and controlling behaviour which can escalate to violence as the abuser seeks power over partners or family members.

"Before the violence intensifies the victim can often seek redress through the civil courts via an injunction to protect themselves and their children from violent, threatening, abusive and harassing behaviour."

Following the sentencing Detective Chief Inspector John Williams is offering advice and reassurance to other domestic violence victims, in the hope that Samantha's tragic story does not happen to anyone else.

He said: "I want to reassure members of the public that Merseyside Police is committed to tackling domestic abuse in all its forms and we have dedicated and specially trained officers who respond to incidents of domestic abuse, investigate incidents and provide support to those in need.

“Domestic abuse can happen to anyone at any time regardless of gender, age and sexuality.

"It is important for people to recognise when it is happening to them and that confidential support and advice is available to those that need it.

“We also appeal to anyone who is aware or suspects that a friend, family member or neighbour is the victim of domestic abuse to contact police at the earliest opportunity.

“Abuse is abuse, whether it happens behind closed doors or in public, and we should all do what we can to protect victims.

“Some people might think it is none of their business just because the victim and offender know each other – but it is everyone’s business to help people in need, and one phone call to police could well save a life.”

For more information about how to report domestic violence or to seek specialist support call the confidential 24-hour National Domestic Violence Helpline on 0808 2000247.

This helpline is free and run in partnership by Refuge and Women's Aid.

People can also call Merseyside Police on 101 or if they are in immediate danger call 999.