Domestic abuse charity Refuge has merged with Let Me Know (LMK),which delivers relationship education for young people.

The merger starts this week and sees Refuge expand its specialist support services. The deal will also offer LMK the chance to scale up its delivery of relationship advice, said the two charities.

“The union is built on the shared commitment of both organisations to prevent relationship abuse and create a safer future for young people,” they add.

“It will accelerate the strategic ambitions of Refuge and LMK, maintaining both charities’ organisational identities and existing relationships with external stakeholders and partners.”

No job losses at LMK are anticipated following the merger, with all 14 of the relationship education charity’s staff transferring to Refuge, which has 460 employees.

“Ending domestic abuse requires a full-spectrum approach, from tailored specialist support for survivors to long-term prevention efforts which address the root causes and help future generations stop abuse in its tracks,” said Refuge’s chair Hetti Barkworth-Nanton.

“Refuge is delighted to begin its journey with LMK, bringing together two exceptional teams to fulfil their crucial goal: ensuring everyone can live free from fear of abuse.”

LMK chair Leon Ward added: “ In joining with a likeminded team, the specialist knowledge and skills of both LMK and Refuge will be pivotal in excelling prevention efforts and will support more young people to thrive in their relationships.”

According to the Charity Register LMK’s income has exceeded its spending in each of the last five financial years.

For the 12 months ending August last year it earned £647,820 and spent £607,090.

Meanwhile, the Register shows that Refuge earned £31.9 m in the 12 months to March last year, and spent £30.1m over this period.

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