RAPE, sexual abuse and domestic violence — it's never the victim's fault.

This message is being shouted loud and clear as the White Ribbon Campaign continues.

The campaign, also known as the 16 Days of Action, highlights how widespread sexual violence and domestic abuse is for women and girls around the UK and beyond from November 25 until December 10.

West Mercia Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Centre (WMRSASC) worked with 921 clients throughout the county in 2015, an the charity's chief executive officer, Jocelyn Anderson said the blame must always be with the perpetrator of abuse.

She said: "Everyone is an individual and will have individual experiences, for some this may be a ‘one off’ sexual assault and for others it may be a whole life time of abuse — whatever has happened, the blame and responsibility for any form of sexual violence has to sit with the perpetrator, never with the victim."

One survivor the group worked with is "Holly", whose name has been changed to protect her identity.

Holly was sexually assaulted when she was five by her brother. She was taken to see her GP by her mother and her medical notes read that she had bruising and internal damage, but no further action was taken.

The abuse escalated and Holly was raped by some of her brother's friends until she put herself in to care aged 17. Her experiences led Holly to self-harm and attempt suicide, and she has developed a number of mental health issues as a result of the abuse.

Martin Lakeman, strategic co-ordinator for the Worcestershire Forum Against Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence, said: “Stories like Holly’s are harrowing and deeply upsetting, but organisations like WMRSASC can ensure survivors have the recognition and support they need to recover.

“During the 16 Days of Action we are keen to promote the help and advice that is available in Worcestershire. Nobody should suffer in silence.”

If you're in need of help and support either call the Worcestershire 24 hour domestic abuse helpline on 0800 980 3331 (for both men and women) or WMRSASC's helpline on 01905 724514.