DOMESTIC abuse crimes have soared in Dorset in the last six years - with nearly 10,000 reports during the first year of the pandemic, figures show.

Home Office data shows 9,159 domestic abuse offences were recorded by Dorset Police in 2020-21, making up 20 per cent of all crimes recorded that year.

That is the equivalent of 12 for every 1,000 people in the area, the same rate as in the previous year.

The county has seen an 85 per cent rise in domestic abuse offences since 4,961 were logged in 2015-16, when records began.

Detective Superintendent Stewart Dipple, of Dorset Police, said: “We have worked to improve our crime recording and increase confidence in reporting.

“This has resulted in an increased flagging of incidents as domestic abuse crimes as well as increased confidence of victims to come forward and report matters to police or partner agencies.”

The figures suggest most cases of domestic abuse will not see perpetrators charged, with just 10 per cent of cases concluded in Dorset last year resulting in a charge or summons.

In Dorset, 75 per cent of cases were closed due to problems gathering evidence in 2020-21, with 54 per cent abandoned because the victim did not wish to support the investigation.

Detective Superintendent Stewart Dipple, of Dorset Police, said: “Dorset Police continues to work to improve its service to victims of domestic abuse, and to address perpetrator behaviour.

“Dorset Police encourages anyone who is affected by domestic abuse in any form to have the confidence to report it either to the police or, if that is not the best route in the first instance for victims, through one of our partner agencies who can support them.”

Despite the rising rates of domestic abuse, BCP and Dorset Councils remain committed to tackling the devastating issue and have launched campaigns in a bid to support residents.

Councillor Molly Rennie, Dorset councillor who leads on domestic abuse work, said: “We want residents who are struggling at home to know that support is always available, and how to access it.

“We are currently running a campaign on our fleet vehicles, including waste and recycling trucks and mini buses, to remind people of what domestic abuse is and how victims can get help.

“If you are finding family life difficult, please reach out. Our partners at Paragon are there for you, whatever your age or gender and no matter what time of day it is.”

BCP Councillor Bobbie Dove, portfolio holder for community safety, said: “Our aspiration is that no resident living within or visiting Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole should live in fear of, or experience domestic abuse.

“To achieve this aim, we are a key partner within the BCP Community Safety Partnership, which includes police, fire & rescue, health and care sectors and have worked together to develop a dedicated Preventing Domestic Abuse Strategy.”