HIGH-RISK offenders and potential victims will be targeted by police in a Christmas crackdown on domestic violence.

Known offenders will receive visits from officers to ensure they are abiding by special conditions or court orders.

And those known to be in danger will receive reassurance visits and checks that safeguarding measures put in place on their behalf are still effective.

There are roughly 500 domestic abuse incidents every month in Dorset, a figure which usually rises over the festive season.

Detective Inspector Fiona Gaffney said: "We want children and families throughout Dorset to be able to enjoy Christmas free from the fear of domestic abuse.

"Domestic abuse isn’t just physical. Does your partner regularly control who you see, what you wear, how you use your phone? These are just a few behaviours which can amount to serious psychological and emotional abuse. Do not suffer in silence - get help and report this abuse now."

Dorset Police will be holding a live web chat on Thursday December 8 for anyone who wants to ask questions of professionals in the field or survivors of abuse.

Det Insp Gaffney stressed that help is available from Dorset Police and its partner agencies and that no one should suffer in silence.

She added: "I strongly encourage anybody who is suffering, or knows someone who is suffering from any form of domestic abuse to report it and seek help."

Members of the public can also apply to the police 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’.

Acting Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner, Colin Pipe, said: "Reports of domestic abuse have been known to increase during the festive season and it is right that we put additional resources in place to support victims and prosecute offenders.

"We are now able to offer tailored courses to male victims of domestic abuse as well as Freedom courses to female victims. Domestic abuse is all about control and I would encourage victims to speak out – you do not have to suffer in silence."

The web chat will take place from 2pm until 4pm on Thursday and a link will be shared on the Dorset Police Facebook and Twitter accounts before to the start time.

Requests for applications under Clare's Law can be made by visiting dorset.police.uk/do-it-online or by calling 101. For more information on support services available throughout Dorset visit dorsetforyou.com/dvahelp