New £1m domestic abuse strategy

A three-year strategy to tackle domestic abuse in Guernsey has been unveiled by the States Social Policy Group.

Domestic abuse is a significant social problem in the Bailiwick, accounting for 37% of violent crime, compared with the UK's figure of 16%.

Guernsey Police was dealing with 17 reported incidents a week in 2008.

The strategy will cost just under £1m and involve improving victim support and ensuring successful prosecutions.

Increasing awareness of domestic violence and making sure different agencies are working together effectively would also form part of the strategy.

The Policy Council said the scheme was well worth the proposed budget.