By Linzi Watson

Last updated 14:47, Wednesday, 06 August 2008

Carlisle soap star Roxanne Pallett is fronting a campaign against domestic violence.

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Roxanne Pallett fronting a domestic abuse campaign

Roxanne became involved with the cause after playing Emmerdale abuse victim Jo Sugden, who is beaten up at the hands of her ex-con husband Andy.

The dramatic storyline, which was the subject of an hour-long special show last night, prompted the Cumbrian star to get involved with women’s charity Refuge in a bid to help more women recognise the early warning signs of domestic abuse.

She is spearheading the campaign and believes it could save lives.

“I have no doubt this campaign will give strength to many women who may be experiencing abuse now, or who may do so in the future, to reach out and get help,” she said.

Roxanne, who is rumoured to be leaving the show in a dramatic exit later this year, added: “Portraying a victim of domestic violence has been the biggest challenge I have ever faced as an actress.

“Just playing the role has taken a huge emotional toll on my life, but it is nothing compared to the pain, fear and torment experienced by the hundreds of women Refuge supports every day.

“It’s horrific to think that two women are killed every week in England and Wales by their current or former partner, but I truly believe that the more women who know about Refuge’s early warning signs campaign, the more lives can be saved.”

She added that just as has been played out in the soap, warning signs of domestic violence become evident even before physical attacks.

“Andy began by gradually isolating Jo, stopping her from making friends, questioning her about where she was going and what she was wearing and constantly expecting her to answer for her actions.

“By the time the physical violence began he already had Jo under his control – hitting her was yet another technique to make her more frightened, more scared and more alone.

“Jo is a strong and feisty character, but the abuse she is experiencing is wearing her down and eroding her self-confidence, so even when people try to help her, she is too scared and manipulated by Andy to reach out for help.

“I know from my work with Refuge that the ‘walking on egg shells’ life that Jo is leading is all too common for so many women.”

The charity is urging women to look out for signs of jealousy, possessiveness, verbal abuse, humiliation, sudden mood changes and intimidation.

To find out more visit www.refuge.org.uk