Seven Categories Of Torture gives a feel of what it's like to live through different types of domestic abuse, including being kept in isolation, putting up with physical beatings, being humiliated or made to take the blame for the behaviour of a partner and putting up with unreasonable demands.

A copy of the educational DVD, written, produced and directed by actors from the Penwortham-based Red Rose Theatre Group, will be sent to local schools and community groups along with educational packs for teachers and youth workers.

It is part of joint efforts from the Community Safety Partnerships in South Ribble and Chorley to ensure young people know how to identify and deal with abuse in the home, whether it is directed at them or other family members.

Sue Mills, chairman of the Chorley and South Ribble Domestic Abuse Forum, praised the young actors and said: "It would be naive to suggest that young people aren't affected by domestic abuse, whether it exists in their own home, a friend's home, or even on TV.

"It is an unfortunate fact, but many young people in South Ribble and Chorley will be exposed to domestic abuse at some point in their lives. They may become a victim themselves or be called upon by a friend or relative to lend support or advice.

"This DVD will, hopefully, raise awareness among local young people of what to look out for and how to access help."

Go to our special section on domestic violence