A shake-up of the treatment of rape and sex attack victims is to take place in Teesside, it has been revealed.

Cleveland Police said victims will be put first and will receive as much help and protection as possible.

Officers who deal directly with victims and those investigating the actual crimes will receive extra training.

Research had shown "gross under-reporting" of crimes involving sex.

Detective Superintendent Stewart Swinson said: "We know a victim is more likely to make an initial complaint and continue it through if they are dealt with properly at the outset. We have reviewed our whole policy on this issue, linked up with agencies such as the Cleveland Sexual Violence Forum and the voluntary sector and have come up with a new approach.''

He said: "It is not just hard- nosed investigation, it is ensuring the needs of the victim are met and that they are dealt with properly in every possible way.

"We want them to feel confident with the police to make a report and see it dealt with to a conclusion."

Det Supt Swinson said victims had felt isolated while the force policy would be completely victim-orientated.