SUPPORT made available for domestic abuse victims is to receive a windfall investment of £115,000.

Warwickshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner Ron Ball today announced that he is investing the cash on the appointment of four additional independent domestic violence advisors in the county. Their role it is to protect the safety of victims at high risk of harm from partners, ex partners or family members, and that of their children.

This service is currently commissioned by Warwickshire County Council and provided by Stonham, part of Home Group Ltd, and forms part of Warwickshire’s Domestic Abuse Support Service.

Tackling domestic abuse is a priority for the commissioner, and sits at the heart of his police and crime plan.

As a result of improved police action, Warwickshire saw a 40 per cent increase in the number of domestic abuse related prosecutions between 2012/13 and 2013/14, despite there being no similar increase in the number of domestic abuse cases being reported to the police.

"As a member of the Home Office’s National Oversight Group on Domestic Abuse, working to tackle this abominable issue remains one of my priority areas, and sits at the heart of my police and crime plan," said Mr Ball.

"Already we have seen better rates of prosecution for those responsible for domestic abuse, and this is testament to the hard work of Warwickshire Police and our partners, however there is no room for complacency and there is still a lot of work to do.”

Sue Ingram, Warwickshire County Council’s domestic abuse manager added: “We welcome the increased investment by the commissioner which will play a big part in helping to ensure that more victims of domestic abuse receive the support that they need.

"By increasing the capacity in the service we will be better able to reach out to individuals and communities to offer support and prevent further violence and abuse."

Anyone worried about domestic abuse can call the Warwickshire Against Domestic Abuse freephone helpline on 0800 408 1552 or visit www.talk2someone.org.uk