TO combat the national rise in forced marriages, a north Manchester housing scheme is providing a special advice service for tenants.

Northwards Housing is extending its domestic abuse policy to provide guidance on the subject, including ‘honour’ violence.

A spokesperson for the service said: "It’s often thought that forced marriage is only a problem within Asian communities, but this isn’t the case. Forced marriage affects children, teenagers and adults from all races and religions. It’s an abuse of human rights and a form of domestic abuse. It’s not acceptable on any religious or cultural basis."

Northwards tenants who suspect they may be forced to marry, or are worried about a friend or relative, can call Northwards on 953 2662.