MORE than 100 frontline police officers have received training from a leading domestic violence and abuse charity.

Statistics show that one in four women and one in six men will be a victim of domestic violence and abuse in their lifetime and during the last six months more than 5,000 incidents of domestic violence and abuse were reported to West Mercia Police.

Deputy police and crime commissioner for West Mercia, Barrie Sheldon, said: "Domestic violence and abuse is something that causes a lot of harm in our communities, and having police officers who are specifically trained in how to handle those cases is very important.

"I'm sure it's a very challenging area for the police - domestic violence and abuse may often lead to situations where they have to be robust in dealing with offenders, but also simultaneously extremely sensitive & understanding in helping with victims.

"Hopefully this sort of training will make them even better in dealing with perpetrators, preventing repeat cases, and helping victims to get their lives back together."

The training has been undertaken by West Mercia Women's Aid.

Mr Sheldon added: "The PCC works closely with Women's Aid - we have provided substantial funding towards the excellent work they do - and I'm very pleased that they have been able to help the police with this training."