DOMESTIC abuse victims can get extra support from Kent Police in a new scheme aiming to counteract the typical rise in reported incidents in the run-up to Christmas.

While response officers will continue to be the first to attend each incident to assess and remove immediate threats and make any necessary threats, victims will get a follow-up visit from a specialised unit.

These officers will make victim care a priority and offer specific support and advice.

There will also be dedicated domestic abuse patrols using Neighbourhood Policing teams in Dartford and Gravesham throughout December which will continue into next year.

Extra patrols are also set to be in Dartford and Gravesend town centres during the festive season to attend calls about anti-social behaviour and alcohol-related problems.

Inspector Gary Woodward of the Dartford Neighbourhood Policing team said: "Christmas is obviously a time for families. However, in amongst the cheer, we find this season often exacerbates existing situations of domestic abuse.

"This could be due to a number of reasons, but drinking to excess and financial stress can cause an already tense household to erupt into violence."

He added last year there was an increase of 35 per cent of calls related to domestic abuse in the district.

He added: "It is never acceptable to abuse your partner or a member of your family in any form and we know just how difficult it is for victims to find the courage to pick up the phone and call the police when there has been an incident.

"Every single victim of domestic abuse should know their complaints will be listened to and they will be treated with sensitivity and compassion. With our new specialised patrol, there will be extra support available and we will be on hand to protect you.

"If you are in this situation, there is no reason it has to continue for even one more day."

For more information on support services in north Kent, visit domesticabuseservices.org.uk