'The verbal, physical and sexual violence that women endure in some marriages contradicts the very nature of the conjugal union,' says new booklet

“Love makes us patient,” says Pope. “So many times we lose patience, even me, and I apologise for yesterday’s bad example.”

“For those who are experiencing domestic abuse, the home is far from being a place of security and self-fulfilment. Too often it is a place of suffering, fear, degradation and isolation.”

Violence against women is endemic, according to the charity Christian Aid.

In addition to children who are homeless, thousands more are living in overcrowded, unsuitable and unsafe sub-standard accommodation.

Archbishop suggests it is too simplistic to infer that an authentic Christian culture of marriage has disappeared on the basis of the referendum.

2014 was the Free Legal Advice Centre's busiest year since its foundation in 1969 with telephone calls up by 10.3% to 15,005.

Women's Aid, which works to combat domestic violence, appeals to young women to know the difference between 'safe' and 'sinister' on Valentine's Day.

Domestic violence campaigners call on people to spend their money on women’s shelters rather than a trip to see the film of 'Fifty Shades of Grey'.

Little attempt made to explain Church's teachings on marriage and the family.