Trial programme to help domestic violence victims launches

A trial programme to stop suspected domestic abusers returning to their victim’s home has been launched in Greater Manchester, West Mercia and Wiltshire.

The 12 month programme aims to provide victims protection in the aftermath of an incident before civil proceedings start.

The new powers police have been given will allow officers to stop abusers from contacting their victims or returning home for up to 28 days.

Victims only receive immediate protection if the police arrest and charge abusers straight away.

Until now, the only protection afforded victims would be temporary accommodation.

Minister for Equalities Lynne Featherstone said: “Domestic violence is an appalling crime which sees two people a week die at the hands of their partner or ex-partners, while millions more suffer years of abuse in their own homes.

When the pilot finishes, a decision whether or not to roll out the scheme nationally will be made.