POLICE bosses from across the North-East today (Monday, June 30) launched a new power in their armoury against domestic violence.

Domestic Violence Protection Orders (DVPOs) are aimed at providing protection to victims by enabling the police and magistrates to put in place protection in the immediate aftermath of a domestic violence incident.

The three Police and Crime Commissioners, Vera Baird (Northumbria), Ron Hogg (Durham) and Barry Coppinger (Cleveland) said they believed the new powers would make it easier for victims to get the help and support they need.

Speaking at launch in Newcastle, Mrs Baird said: “These powers allow police to take immediate action to ban a suspected perpetrator from the victim’s address for 48 hours.

“This can be done with or without the consent of the victim, thus removing the need for what can be a very difficult decision for the victim – whether to make a complaint against someone they may love and have children with.

“This breathing space not only gives the victim the reassurance that they are safe, but also allows them the time to consider their options and get access to support services without pressure from the perpetrator.”

Mr Coppinger said: “It’s important to safeguard victims at an early stage and these orders will prove a lifeline for victims and children by reducing the risk of immediate harm against them."

If officers believe a perpetrator has used or threatened violence towards a victim and the victim is at risk, they can issue a Domestic Violence Protection Notice (DVPN) on the spot, provided they have the authorisation of an officer at superintendent rank.

This prevents the suspected offender returning to the address for 48 hours.

The second stage the magistrate's court must hear a case for a DVPO within 48 hours of the DVPN being made. If granted, the order may last between 14 days and 28 days.

Mr Hogg said: “Durham Constabulary will have 13 dedicated safeguarding DVPO officers, who will work in partnership with the courts and support services, to enable us to protect our most vulnerable victims.”

Policing minster Damian Green said: "Domestic violence is a terrible form of abuse and the government is working hard to provide police and local authorities with the tools they need to stop this inexcusable crime.”