Around €5,000 was donated to Għabex, the emergency shelter for women who are victims of domestic violence and their children. MT Style Clinic collected the sum along with the Vodafone Malta Foundation, the Local Councils Association and members of the public.

The contributions were collected through a walkathon organised by Francesca Rizzo and Nirvana Azzopardi, directors of MT Style Clinic.

Addressing the gathering during the presentation, Ms Rizzo said: "Men and women came together to stand against domestic violence."

Claudette Abela Baldacchino, vice president of the Local Councils Association, emphasised that domestic violence is a reality within all societies which doesn't distinguish class, age or sex.

"Għabex, run by Appoġġ, provides a vital service to the community by offering a safe environment to female victims of domestic violence and their children, who require immediate protection," said Gemma Mifsud Bonnici, chairman of the Vodafone Malta Foundation.

Joe Gerada, chief executive officer of the Foundation for Social Welfare Services, said: "We cannot simply be happy with having an Act against Domestic Violence".

For this reason Appoġġ is distributing leaflets in court and at police stations to raise awareness.

Mr Gerada saidAppoġġ can work closely with the courts in cases where therapy for the perpetrators is needed.

For further information about Appoġġ call supportline 179, or visit www.appogg.gov.mt.