A call for action against abuse and violence in teenage relationships.

Research from the New Zealand Family Violence Clearinghouse shows one in five women who seek shelter in women's refuges are aged between 15 and 19.

Furthermore, almost a third of high school students have been hit or harmed by another person.

Report author Doctor Melanie Beres told Mike Hosking too many teens are living in fear and are afraid to ask for help.

"Young people don not want to come forward, particularly to talk to adults about what's going on in their relationships," she said.

LISTEN ABOVE TO MELANIE BERES SPEAK WITH MIKE HOSKING.

Police advice for people in family violence situations

- In an emergency dial 111 and ask for the Police.

- If you or anyone you know is a victim of violence, talk to police or someone who can help.

- If you are concerned about your safety, you (or family or friends) can request information relating to the violence history of a new partner through the Family Violence Information Disclosure Scheme