A POLICE commissioner has has said more needs to be done to tackle domestic abuse and support victims, describing it as a "hidden harm".

This week Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS) published a report praising the policing of domestic abuse across England and Wales during the pandemic.

The report found that the pandemic had put domestic abuse victims at greater risk, but praised the police for making good use of technology and working with partners to find new ways to support victims.

The inspectorate said that while the police had innovated throughout the pandemic, it still had some concerns about how the police responds to domestic abuse longer-term.

The report highlighted Durham Constabulary had reviewed cases of all victims who had been discussed at a Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conference – at which specialists such as local police, health, child protection and housing, independent domestic violence advisers and probation staff share information about high risk victims – and contacted those victims. The force also reviewed repeat domestic abuse incidents and then reviewed the incidents or further lines of enquiry.

After sharing all relevant information about a victim, the representatives discuss options for increasing the safety of the victim and create a co-ordinated action plan.

During the pandemic the Ministry of Justice provided further funding to increase the number of independent sexual violence and domestic violence advisers in County Durham and Darlington.

IDVAs tailor support to the individual needs of the victim, act as a single point of contact and provide emotional and practical support before, during and after the court process.

Durham Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen said: “It is welcome news that the report praises the proactive response from police to domestic abuse cases during the pandemic, however, more can be done to support victims longer-term.

“Domestic abuse is a hidden harm and I am committed to working in partnership with local services to ensure emotional and practical support is available to victims and survivors of domestic abuse across County Durham and Darlington.

“Continued hard work needs to be done to maintain a proactive police response but it is deeply concerning that on average, three in every four domestic abuse related crimes are closed by the police without the perpetrator being charged.

“I will work with partners to understand how we can increase these charge rates and ensure we have long-term solutions to support victims.”

Durham Police and Crime Commissioner’s Office is in the process of bidding for further funding from the Home Office for plans primarily focused on helping make women and girls feel safer on the streets, as well as projects which could include an emphasis on changing attitudes and behaviours in local communities.

Anyone who suspects domestic abuse or is experiencing it can seek help at myharbour.org.uk or call 03000-202525.