The refuge is already supporting two such women and has had 30 phone calls from other immigrants in just four weeks.

The free and confidential service, offered in English, Gujarati, Punjabi and Urdu, is thought to be the first service of its kind offered by a Women's Aid organisation.

If a woman with insecure immigration status leaves an abusive relationship, they have no recourse to public funds.

This means they are unable to access statutory help for housing under the Housing Act, housing costs or day to day living expenses.

Many refuges are unable to accommodate women and children in these situations as they are unable to claim housing benefit or claim living expenses.

Safiya Badat, assistant director and immigration advisor, said: "Every year women who arrive in the UK as immigrants and asylum seekers experience domestic violence.

"Many women we support are married to or have relationship with a man who is a British citizen or who has settled status to reside in the UK.

Many of the women have children who are British Citizens, but none of these women have rights to public funds.

"As a result many women are trapped with a violent partner. They have a choice: stay in the relationship and risk their lives or leave and face deportation and destitution."

Preston Women's Refuge offers advice and information on issues such as entry clearance matters, nationality and citizenship matters and EU and EEA immigration law.

If you or somebody you know is suffering from domestic violence you can call our 24 hour helpline on 01772 201601, the advice line on on 01772 201301 or police on 0845 1 253545.

Victims can also visit The Hope Centre, a drop-in centre, in St John's shopping centre in Preston, close to the Covered Market.