A NEW campaign has been launched to offer more support to victims of domestic violence.

Police officers specially trained to deal with victims will now attend all reports of incidents with investigating officers.

They will carry cameras to photograph victims' injuries, help take statements and provide advice on emergency housing and social services matters.

Operation Homesafe - on trial in Bolton and across Greater Manchester - is aimed at making a real impact on the lives of victims and could become a regular feature of investigations.

The officers will also have access to the Domestic Violence Database, enabling them to view records of previous incidents at addresses, details of occupants and backgrounds of suspects, including criminal records.

It is also aimed at encouraging officers to liaise more closely with the Crown Prosecution Service to evaluate the quality of cases.

Det Insp Jayne Shackleton, of Greater Manchester's domestic violence unit, said: "Becoming the victim of domestic violence can be extremely traumatic, both physically and mentally. By having domestic violence officers on hand when the call comes in, we will be able to offer more support to the victim and officers dealing with the incident.

"By having immediate and direct contact with trained domestic violence officers, victims may be able to use this as an opportunity to start afresh."

In June, the Bolton Evening News revealed 20 people a week in Bolton were being attacked or abused by partners or family members.

Based on the number of victims referred by police to Bolton's Victim Support and Witness Service, the number of victims rocketed by 20 per cent to 990 in the past 12 months.