Police say one in four women are victims of domestic violence

One of the aims is to reduce the amount of intimidation victims are subjected to.

The pilot project in Exeter involves a number of groups and is backed by research carried out by Exeter University and the Probation Service.

It is hoped ways can be found to reduce the high levels of intimidation and threats faced by the alleged victims and this, in turn, could lead to more successful prosecutions.

If you are in an abusive situation, you are not alone, you are not to blame Devon and Cornwall Police

The project spoke to victims of domestic violence to find out why some withdraw charges as the court case approaches.

As part of the project, all police officers in Exeter have received additional training. It is hoped the results could be used across Devon and possibly elsewhere in the country.

Devon and Cornwall Police said the constabulary was pleased to be involved in a project that tackled something that happens to one out of every four women at least once in their lifetime.

The police said: "There is no excuse for this violent behaviour. Violence is against the law.

"Anyone can suffer domestic violence. It spans all social classes and colours.