Camilla: Society must challenge 'corrosive' silence of domestic abuse

The Duchess of Cornwall will urge society to challenge the "corrosive" silence that surrounds domestic violence.

Camilla will host a reception for survivors of domestic abuse and those working in the field at Clarence House, London, on Thursday.

In a preview of her comments in the Daily Mail, she highlights the problems caused by shame around admitting being a victim of abuse.

Each year around 2.1 million people in the UK suffer some form of domestic abuse - 1.4 million women, the equivalent of 8.5% of the population, and 700,000 men.

Camilla pledged to help victims after hearing the harrowing stories of women who have suffered at the hands of partners.

After visiting SafeLives, a national charity which works to safeguard those at risk from harm from partners or family members, in January, she was visibly moved.

At the reception on Thursday, the Duchess is expected to say: "Domestic abuse remains a hidden problem in our society. It is characterised by silence - silence from those who suffer, silence from those around them and silence from those who perpetrate abuse.

"This silence is corrosive: It leaves women, children - and men - carrying the burden of shame, it prevents them from speaking out about their abuse and it prevents them from getting help. And at its worst, it can be fatal."