MORE specially-trained police officers will deal with any additional domestic violence during the World Cup.

From tomorrow to until Sunday 13 July, officers will be conducting extra reassurance visits to high-risk victims to ensure they continue to be safe.

Police will be targeting serial perpetrators of domestic abuse and ensuring effective safeguarding measures are put in place in relation to children and vulnerable adults.

Known offenders of domestic abuse can expect to receive a police visit to ensure they are abiding by any special conditions or court orders.

Detective Inspector Richard Dixey 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 priority for Dorset Police.

“Along with our own experienced and specially-trained officers who investigate these offences, we also work in close partnership with other support agencies who can also offer support, advice and guidance.”

Dorset Police receives on average 700 reports of domestic abuse per month across the county. Reported incidents of domestic abuse tend to increase when major sporting tournaments take place.

Detective Inspector Richard Dixey continued: “If you commit an act of domestic abuse against your partner, expect to be arrested, dealt with robustly and go through the Criminal Justice System, if appropriate. Domestic abuse offences can attract significant custodial sentences.

“A recent example is an offender who had broken the jaw of his previous partner. He went on to attack his current partner leaving her with severe bruising to her face and body. He received a total custodial sentence of 16 months at Bournemouth Crown Court.

“Dorset Police is committed to preventing these offences developing into more serious violent crimes. Across the UK, two women a week and one man every 17 days are killed by their partner or former partner.

“Alcohol can play a part in domestic abuse. Please ensure you do not become a perpetrator as the result of excessive drinking.

“I strongly encourage anybody suffering from this awful crime to report it and seek help.”

Members of the public can also apply to the police on 101 under the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme (Clare’s Law) for a disclosure on a suspected offender’s past history known as the ‘right to ask’.

The scheme is for anyone in an intimate relationship regardless of gender.

Anybody can make an enquiry, but information will only be given to someone at risk or a person in a position to safeguard the victim.

Partner agencies can also request disclosure is made of an offender’s past history where it is believed someone is at risk of harm. This is known as ‘right to know’.

For more information on support services available throughout Dorset visit http://www.dorsetforyou.com/dvahelp.