WHEN I began researching my role as Charlie Stubbs in Coronation Street I got a first hand insight into the lives of those affected by domestic violence.

I originally approached the team at Women's Aid to help me understand my storyline in Coronation Street but was extremely touched by the incredible and important work the charity does. It is collecting old or unwanted mobile phones to transform into mobile personal alarms or recycle to raise funds.

Freepost envelopes to donate the handsets are available to pick up at over 300 stores of The Body Shop across the UK. The Freephone 24 Hour National Domestic Violence Helpline is 0808 2000 247.

B WARD, actor, Coronation Street