POLICE predict an increase in the number of arrests involving domestic violence under a new policy.

Officers will be encouraged to take a tougher stance over the problem as part of Cleveland Police's new corporate procedures.

Instead of waiting for victims to ask for arrests, they will be expected to take the initiative themselves.

The Positive Action policy follows year-long consultations with a number of agencies, including domestic violence forums, social services and the Crown Prosecution Service.

Cleveland Community Safety Officer, Inspector Harry Simpson, said: "This is the first time our policy towards domestic violence has been reviewed in ten years, and it reflects Government guidelines and the European law on Human Rights. It should lead to more arrests."

Insp Simpson said he believes the approach will be popular with victims.

"There is a massive demand from women in particular that more should be done in relation to perpetrators.

"Now if it is possible to arrest the perpetrator at the scene, that will be encouraged."

He said statistics would be compiled showing the number of arrests made, with officers' actions being reviewed if their arrest rate in domestic violence situations is considered to be low.

Another key difference will be that a broader view of domestic violence will be taken, with officers taking into account its effects on the whole family.

Insp Simpson said: "We will now be comparing statistics on people on the periphery of domestic violence, such as who was involved in the dispute, and how many were repeat victims.

"It will give us a broader picture of the whole issue."

To help convey the positive message, Insp Simpson has enlisted an acting group to show how to handle domestic violence at the policy's launch at Police Headquarters on Monday.

Alane Aitken, project manager of Domestic Violence Reachout, said: "When a woman telephones the police, it's a serious matter.

"Our stance is that if a man chooses to behave unlawfully, he should be arrested."