A NEW council scheme is helping sufferers of domestic violence.

Bromley Council is the first London borough to introduce the free 12-week programme.

The scheme will start tomorrow and run in Mottingham, Orpington and Penge.

It will cover a number of topics including where to get help, the effects of domestic violence on children and how to gain self-esteem.

Domestic violence co-ordinator Dave Gaywood said: "The first step for many women faced with this abuse is to understand help is at hand."

For more information or to book a place, call 020 8313 4920.