Trial to offer domestic abuse victims extra support

Police say the initiative will give victims a chance to share "critical information"

A police force will carry out follow-up visits to domestic abuse victims within 24 hours of a suspect's arrest as part of a trial.

During the visits, victims will be offered "potentially lifesaving support" including emergency accommodation and wellbeing services, said Avon and Somerset Police.

Victims will also be able to share "critical information" about perpetrators, police said.

The force will launch the one-month trial on 10 February under the name Operation Balearic, with the help of the charity The You Trust and Somerset Council.

"Victims often struggle to engage immediately following a traumatic incident," said Det Insp Matt Cable, from Avon and Somerset Police's sexual investigations team.

"By following up within 24 hours, with the support of specialist advisers, we provide them with a second chance to seek help – showing them that they are heard, supported, and protected."

'Not alone'

Det Insp Cable added: "We empower victims to share critical information that can help us build stronger cases against dangerous perpetrators."

During the course of a previous one-month trial run by the force, 49 victims were visited by police, of which 42% provided additional evidence to officers and 81% engaged with further safeguarding support.

Natalie Mears, from The You Trust, said: "No-one should have to live in fear of abuse or violence.

"This is an incredibly frightening time for victims and we stand by them to ensure they are not alone."