More help is to be given to victims of domestic violence and groups supporting them under a new policy drawn up by Kirklees Council.

Local authority chiefs have also pledged to take action against the abusers. The ten-page document is being launched next Tuesday - the day before a special European publicity day to counter violence against women.

The report says the Council will help by re-housing victims fleeing violence and provide training for staff working with adults and children suffering abuse.

Funding will also be given to voluntary groups helping people fleeing or living in a violent relationship.

Council employees suffering abuse will be given help and those who are the perpetrators will have their behaviour challenged through in-house counselling or referred to outside agencies.

The document says: "Domestic violence has a particular relevance for Kirklees Council where it affects the Council's ability to deliver its services or places an increased burden on those services.

"For instance, a member of staff who is experiencing violence may be less able to carry out her or his duties effectively.

"A member of staff who is a perpetrator of domestic violence may not be an appropriate person to deploy in certain types of work, for example, working in a caring role or with vulnerable people.''

The local authority is also pledging to support local and national anti-domestic violence campaigns and publicise the issue in schools and in youth groups.

Penny Kennedy, domestic violence services manager for North Kirklees Women's Refuge, said: "Any kind of stance taken by a local authority on domestic violence is to be welcomed. This policy sends out a positive message to families experiencing violence.

"We hope it will lead to other organisations following the Council's example.

"One of the reasons people stay in violent relationships is because they feel they will be blamed and are afraid of the repercussions from family, friends and people in general.

"But the Council's policy helps to raise awareness that domestic violence is unacceptable and helps takes away the guilt people feel as victims.''

The policy gives definitions of domestic violence, its effects on the individual, legal protection and what managers should do if colleagues are suspected of or being investigated for violence in the home.

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