Domestic abuse reports 'rise 30% in Jersey'

There was a 30% rise in reports of domestic abuse in the two years to 2009, a children's policy group says.

Sammy Price, deputy manager of the Jersey Women's Refuge, said the increase could be because the issue now had a higher profile.

"It could be that the message is getting out to more women or that society is changing its perspective."

She said the refuge had done an enormous amount of work over the past couple of years.

The figures were released as Jersey businesses were asked to help back the work of the refuge.

The Open Door Corporate Campaign invites employers and local businesses to introduce a domestic violence policy.

Mike Cutland, chairman of the Domestic Violence Forum, said: "It is important that staff at all levels are equipped to recognise the signs and are aware of what to do should they suspect someone is a victim of abuse.

"This support can prove life-changing for the victim and could be a first step to helping them out of harm's way."