New crime figures show that more than a quarter of violent crimes in Teignbridge, South Hams and west Devon, between April to December 2005 were domestic related.
The number of domestic violence incidents reported to the police rose month on month from September to December, and from April to December the region represented almost a third of all reported incidents of domestic violence for Devon. The figures describe another alarming truth – that children were present at almost one in every two incidents of domestic violence. 'That children are involved in so many incidents of domestic violence is concerning,' said Marian Swinfen, project manager for a new perpetrator programme for the region, called Repair (Resolved to Ending Power and Abuse In Relationships) 'They are as much victims in these cases as those directly involved. Reports of incidents rising can be a positive sign that victims are doing something about it, and not letting it go unreported.' Repair, which is a voluntary programme for people in Teignbridge, South Hams and west Devon that helps violent men stop their aggressive behaviour and supports families involved. The south Devon programme is new and has developed after success in north Devon where an identical programme is now approaching its third year. The roll out across Devon last year was possible after ADVA Devon ( the against Domestic Violence and Abuse in Devon), which is led by the county council, drew Government funding of £617,000 over three years. Repair programmes work in partnership with Women's and Children's Support Services, so every partner/ex-partner of men on the programme, and their children are supported. 'This is very good news for residents in south Devon who may be affected by domestic abuse,' said County Cllr Jill Owen, who is chairman of ADVA. 'More men will have access to the programme which it is hoped will benefit both them and their families.' Anyone interested in the Repair programme in south Devon can call Marian Swinfen on 07816549113.