Team dedicated to tackling domestic abuse has driven up conviction rates

The Domestic Abuse Investigation and Safeguarding Unit (DAISU) was formed in October 2014, and since its creation conviction rates have risen by eight per cent.

The unit investigates cases of domestic abuse and violence, of which there are hundreds of reported incidents on a weekly basis.

Det Insp Aaron Kiff said: “In the year since the creation of DAISU, we have seen dramatic improvements in the way in which we tackle domestic abuse, and it has been a real success story. Our outstanding high risk offenders have fallen to single figures, and we are seeing a lot more positive outcomes at court.”

Since the team was formed, officers have provided safeguarding advice to more than 11,000 victims – the equivalent of 30 a day. The time that it takes for victims to receive this support has also fallen dramatically.

There has also been an increase of more than 1,300 reports of domestic abuse being made to police.

Det Insp Kiff said: “We’re really pleased to have seen such an increase in reporting, and we’re continuing to encourage victims to come forward. It’s important to recognise that anyone can be a victim of domestic abuse. It is not restricted to any particular gender, age group, ethnicity, or background, and it’s nothing to be ashamed of.

“We work with a number of agencies to provide support and safeguarding to victims, so I would really encourage anyone who thinks they may be suffering from domestic abuse to come forward and contact us.”

To report a concern about domestic abuse, call 101 – or 999 in an emergency situation.

You can also contact Crimestoppers, completely anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

For further information about what to do if you, or someone you know, is a victim of domestic abuse, visit www.bedfordshire.police.uk