Domestic violence court 'a success'

More than 70 per cent of domestic abuse cases heard at a special court result in the conviction of offenders, police said today.

The Specialist Domestic Violence Court in Shrewsbury sits every other Thursday with specially trained magistrates, crown prosecutors and legal advisors.

Victims are supported by independent domestic violence advocates, who are on hand to help them before, during and after court hearings, whatever the outcome.

Of the cases in which an advocate is on hand, an average of 71 per cent result in a successful prosecution.

About 150 cases go before the court each year.

Gill Jones, Shropshire County Council community safety team leader, said early indications were that it was having a positive effect on dealing with domestic violence.

"There has been a lot of work done in recent years to increase support for victims of domestic abuse and to encourage people to report incidents," she said.

"According to statistics compiled by Women's Aid, one in four women will be a victim of domestic violence at some point in their lifetime and one in every eight victims on an annual basis.

"However, still less than a quarter of victims report incidents to police."

The court hears the first appearance of a defendant to ensure all the relevant processes and specialist knowledge is passed on for other court appearances.

For help dealing with domestic abuse call the domestic violence helpline on 08007 831359.