A POLICE force says new Domestic Violence Protection Orders (DVPO) - designed to give victims temporary emergency protection – are being successfully granted in almost all cases.

Domestic Violence Protections Notices (DVPN) and protection orders were introduced just over two years ago.

North Yorkshire Police say since then, 96 per cent of orders it has applied for have been granted at magistrates courts.

Police can serve a DVPN to a domestic abuse offender in the immediate aftermath of violence. The notices enable police to force a violent individual to leave the home of the victim and prevents them from contacting them in any way for 48 hours.

The window of emergency protection enables police and support services to help the victim to assess their options and make decisions about their long term safety.

It also enables police to apply to a magistrate's court for a Domestic Violence Protection Order (DVPO), which can last for up to 28 days.

If the orders are breached police can arrest the offender.

DCI Allan Harder from North Yorkshire Police Safeguarding unit said: "The DVPN and DVPO process runs alongside any criminal proceedings that are being taken against the offender, but provides instant protection to victims to take them out of the risk of harm."

Independent Domestic Abuse Services (IDAS) Director, Karen Hill said: “The police are able to take this course of action without consent, therefore reducing the responsibility, fear, blame and possibility of repercussions for the victim. It also allows time for agencies like IDAS to offer victims support and information which can prove to be a lifeline.”

IDAS offer confidential support and advice to anyone affected by domestic abuse and to people who are concerned for a friend or family member.

Their helpline is available 24/7 and available on 03000 110 110.