A new national sculpture is set to be made using old handcuffs from police forces across the UK.

The British Ironwork Centre initiated the project after receiving a donation of obsolete handcuffs from West Mercia Police following their equipment upgrade.

The proposed sculpture, which will have an anti-domestic violence message, will acknowledge the rise in domestic abuse rates for both genders over recent years.

The cause resonates with the centre's previous anti-violence memorials like the Knife Angel and Manchester Bee.

Furthermore, it's understood that West Mercia Police will contribute 2,500 pairs of handcuffs for the project.

Alarming data indicates that one in four women and one in six men experience domestic violence in their lifetime, often unnoticed until life-threatening conditions arise.

Less than 24 per cent of such incidents are reported to authorities, with the violence putting increasing pressure on various national systems including the police force, medical establishments, call centres, and the broader judiciary.

This national concern is inspiring the centre to reach out to the remaining 42 British constabularies for additional handcuff donations.

Greater Manchester has already pledged support for the cause.

In line with the centre's other national anti-violence initiatives, the sculpture's UK tour will promote social change and increase awareness around anti-violence and aggression.

Like past monuments, the use of recycled materials helps circumvent financial obligations on tour locations.

The campaign showcases reutilisation of obsolete resources, a sign of the centre's advocacy for sustainability.