VICTIMS of domestic abuse are being encouraged to speak out with the launch of The National Centre for Domestic Violence (NCDV) in the Oxfordshire area.
NCDV is a registered charity that provides a service to all people who suffer from domestic abuse, completely free of charge.
The charity offers advice and support to victims regardless of age, race, gender, sexuality or financial circumstances and they aim to get cases to court within 24 hours or on the first working day after initial contact.
The scheme will be launched in Oxfordshire on Thursday.
Steve Connor, chief executive of NCDV, said: "Domestic abuse is a cowardly and horrific crime that affects all sectors of society.
"I'm confident that by standing together with Thames Valley Police we will send out a message that this crime will not be tolerated any longer and everything will be done to bring any perpetrators to justice.
"For the first time, victims of domestic violence within the Thames Valley area will be able to access fast free legal advice and support through the civil court system regardless of age, gender, race, sexual orientation or financial circumstances."
Ch Supt Brian Langston, from Thames Valley Police, said: "Domestic abuse is a pernicious crime which attacks the very fabric of society. It sees thousands of victims trapped in silent misery within their own homes.
"Thames Valley Police welcomes the partnership of NCDV in helping victims to escape the trauma of domestic abuse. Would-be perpetrators need to understand that we treat all complaints seriously and that they should expect to end up in a police cell if we receive a call for help from an abused victim.
"Our policy is to work with the Crown Prosecution Service to identify every opportunity to bring a prosecution, even in cases where the victim is intimidated and unwilling to give evidence. Our Public Protection Units work closely with a broad range of partners to reduce victimisation and provide longer-term support to domestic abuse victims in changing their lives and their children's lives for the better."
For more information about the National Centre for Domestic Violence visit www.ncdv.org.uk
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