Strategy bids to end violence (From Barry And District News)

Strategy bids to end violence

A CRACKDOWN on domestic violence is being launched in the Vale of Glamorgan to slow the spiralling problem.

The new initiative is being introduced by the South Wales Criminal Justice Board, after shocking figures revealed over 15,500 incidents of domestic violence were estimated to have taken place in the Vale during April, May and June 2004 - with just 447 reported.

One in four women experience domestic violence during their lifetime. Traditionally, the suffering increases around sporting events and hot weather, factors in half of all domestic violence cases due to alcohol consumption.

The number of reported attacks in the Vale during June 2004 was 155, compared to 119 in June 2003. The massive 30.3 percent increase was contributed to Euro 2004 and high temperatures.

The South Wales Criminal Justice Board is a partnership of the police, the Crown Prosecution Service, the courts, the prison, probation services and Youth Offending Teams.

It is hoped the new initiative will lead to an increase in reporting of incidents, a reduction in prosecutions being dropped and fewer repeat offences, and allow courts to deal with offenders swiftly.

Each CPS unit across South Wales has a nominated domestic violence lawyer, who works closely with the corresponding Police Domestic Abuse Unit Co-ordinator.

Crimes of domestic violence wreck the lives of victims and their children, and have a detrimental effect on society in general, according to the South Wales Criminal Justice Board, which is determined to focus on this area and protect those who suffer in their own homes.

Over 1,400 incidents of domestic violence were reported in the Vale of Glamorgan from April 2003 to the end of March 2004.

If you are suffering from domestic violence, contact the National Domestic Violence Helpline on 0808 80 10 800.

It provides support, information and a helping hand to those people who are living with domestic violence.

The line aims to enable women to discuss options for action, and to empower them to make informed choices to change their lives and their children's lives.