DORSET police are putting extra officers on duty to deal with domestic abuse over Christmas.

According to police, cases of domestic abuse increase during the festive period.

Dorset Police will have additional specially-trained officers dedicated to working with victims, and to deal with offenders.

A spokesman said: "Children and families throughout Dorset should be able to enjoy their Christmas free from the fear of domestic abuse.

"Officers will be conducting extra reassurance visits to high-risk victims.

"Serial domestic abuse perpetrators and offenders with special conditions and court orders will also be subject to further scrutiny during the festive period.

"There is no place for domestic abuse at any time of year."

According to police, domestic abuse is defined as 'any incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive or threatening behaviour, violence or abuse between those aged 16 or over, who are or have been intimate partners or family members, regardless of gender or sexuality.

'Coercive and controlling behaviour is psychological and emotional abuse and is also a criminal offence.'

To contact Crimestoppers anonymously call 0800 555 111.

For more information visit www.dorset.police.uk/help-advice-crime-prevention/abuse-exploitation-neglect/domestic-abuse/

Always phone 999 in an emergency.