A NEW way of tackling domestic abuse and protecting victims is being launched by West Mercia Police across North Worcestershire after the pilot scheme's successful introduction in the south of the county.

The use of Domestic Violence Protection Notices and Orders (DVPN/Os) will now be used in North Worcestershire, including Redditch and Bromsgrove.

DVPNs and DVPOs give the police and courts the power to ban an offender from returning to the victim's home, which could also be their home, and to place further restrictions to protect a victim and any children that may be at risk.

The new process builds on existing police measures, providing immediate emergency protection for a victim, giving protected space for them to explore the options available to them and make informed decisions regarding their safety.

A DVPN can be authorised by a police officer of superintendent rank or above and the case will be presented before magistrates within 48 hours of it being served.

If, based on the evidence, magistrates then decide to make a DVPO, it can last between 14 and 28 days.

Since the pilot began in South Worcestershire 10 DVPOs have already been made.

Detective Sergeant Sharon Avery is co-ordinating the pilot project nationally and for West Mercia Police, which involves working closely with local partners involved in Domestic Abuse Forums, Victim Support and Women's Aid.

Once a DVPN/O has been issued police will then refer the victim to Women's Aid or other support services who will then contact the victim to conduct a needs assessment to see what help and support they require. Where specific needs are identified they will put them in touch with an independent domestic violence adviser from Women's Aid.

The pilot will last 12 months and will then be assessed by the Home Office.