A BETTER deal for victims of domestic violence has been promised by seven agencies who have signed up to a new minimum standards agreement.

Gateshead Domestic Violence Forum brokered the deal with, among others, the Crown Prosecution Service, the courts, police and Probation Service.

The result will be a better, more transparent service, which will allow victims to see exactly what kind of help and support they can expect from the agencies.

Councillor Malcolm Graham, Gateshead's cabinet member with responsibility for community safety, said: "This signing marks an important step forward for victims of domestic violence in Gateshead.

"By inviting these major partners to publicly state what help they are prepared to offer, we can ensure that anyone suffering at the hands of a violent partner who turns to us for help, can be sure of the type of support they will receive.

"Hopefully, this agreement will increase the number still further."