A WOMEN'S refuge today praised police for being at "the cutting edge" in tackling domestic violence.

Bosses at the Wish Centre in Blackburn say Lancashire Police's special new support packs for victims of domestic violence will help to stamp out the problem.

A £30,000 grant from the Lancashire Police Authority to the domestic violence unit has funded 80 special support packs to help officers provide instant support and gather evidence of domestic violence offences.

The packs contain a panic alarm, an emergency 999 dedicated mobile phone, a personal attack alarm and a Polaroid camera, which can be used to take instant shots of a victim's injuries.

Vivien Blackledge, of the centre in Cardwell Place, said: "Anything that helps victims of domestic violence is extremely positive.

"This is a good way forward for people to address a very serious issue as it gives victims the chance to take control of the situations they may find themselves in.

"It is great that Lancashire Police are at the cutting edge in trying to tackle this very serious issue."

She said the centre had had about 2,500 women through its doors last year seeking support, information or advice. Only just over 100 of those had reported incidents to the police.

They also had about 570 calls to their confidential helpline.

Detective Inspector Joyce Green, Lancashire Constabulary's domestic violence co-ordinator, said: "Thanks to this generous grant from the police authority we have been able to put together these packs that are effective and easy to use.

"They will certainly support our efforts to encourage our officers to take positive action when dealing with domestic violence, particularly when that involves protection, prevention and enforcement."

The phones and the panic attack alarms from the packs, worth £270 each, will be given to victims of domestic violence.

Dr Ruth Henig, chairman of the police authority, said: "We are making it quite clear to everyone that domestic violence will be treated as a serious crime."

The packs will be sent to all six divisions of the constabulary along with a special guide issued to every officer.

Domestic violence will be the topic of discussion at the next meeting of the Blackburn with Darwen Women's Forum.

All women are welcome to attend the meeting, which takes place in Committee Room One, Blackburn Town Hall at 1pm on Monday January 15. For more details call 01254 585437.