There will be specially-trained police officers dedicated to supporting victims of domestic abuse in Dorset this Christmas.

Inspector Steve Thorpe said: “We are determined to support victims in reporting these crimes, and make sure those who inflict abuse are brought to justice. This is a force priority”

Known offenders can expect a visit from Dorset Police as they target serial perpetrators to make sure effective safeguarding measures are put in place.

As well as monitoring, police will also be providing a response to any reported incidents.

Insp Thorpe explains it’s not only the police that are getting involved in these measures “We also work in close partnership with other support agencies who can also offer support, advice and guidance” he said.

Across the UK, two women every week and one man every 17 days are killed by their partner or former partner.

In Dorset an average of 700 cases of domestic abuse are reported each month and the number tends to increase over the festive period.

Inspector Thorpe also warns of alcohol often playing a part in domestic abuse and urges anyone who is suffering from abuse to report it and seek help.

“Our officers want children and families throughout Dorset to be able to enjoy Christmas free from the fear of domestic abuse.

“If you commit an act of domestic abuse against your partner, expect to be arrested.”

You can follow the Dorset Police countdown to Christmas updates by visiting dorset.police.uk, following Dorset Police on Twitter @dorsetpolice or by searching for the hashtag #DPXmasCountdown.

Amanda sought the help of refuge

Amanda (not her real name) had been with her partner for 12 years when she had enough.

The 44-year old says it started subtly with verbal abuse and then escalated.

He would try to control her by recording her phone calls and deprive her of sleep by waking her up in the middle of the night just to shout at her.

When she escaped she took her three young children with her. Eventually they came to a BCHA refuge where they were all helped and her eldest son was given some counselling. Amanda says the refuge made her feel secure and that they have been wonderful to her and her children.

“BCHA’s refuge set us back on the road to being a normal family. And that’s all anybody really wants: a normal, happy life.”