North East police chiefs launch domestic abuse strategy

A strategy to tackle violence and abuse against women and children has been launched by police and crime commissioners in north-east England.

Northumbria PCC Vera Baird, Cleveland's Barry Coppinger and Durham's Ron Hogg's plan includes scrutinising case files on failed rape prosecutions.

Other measures include more support being made available for women at work.

The PCCs hope the police rape scrutiny panels will improve evidence-gathering and lead to more convictions.