In Norfolk 27 women died as a result of domestic crime from 1995 to 2003

Solicitor General Harriet Harman launched a report on domestic violence which reveals the extent of the problem in the county.

One Voice reveals more than 300 cases in just one week in Norwich alone.

Now Norwich Voices Against Domestic Violence plans a one-stop shop to make it easier for victims to come forward.

Ms Harman said: "People think of Norfolk as a relatively peaceful, crime-free area, which I think generally it is, but domestic crime is a major and very grave issue for women and children.

One Voice report The Norwich-based research shows 27 women and three children died as a result of domestic violence in Norfolk between 1995 and 2003. In one week 344 cases of domestic abuse were handled by the various agencies, with 74% of victims saying they had been abused before. Researchers estimate the cost to agencies investigating the problem and supporting victims in reported cases is �15m a year in Norwich alone. Experts fear that in Norfolk at least 1,500 people are likely to be victims of domestic violence every week, of whom 1,100 will be repeat victims. The new centre hopes to provide a more co-ordinated approach so organisations see a huge difference.

"Twenty-five per cent of all violent crime is domestic, and in Norfolk, 45% of all homicides are domestic violence-related.

"There is no excuse for domestic violence. Saying 'it's wrong, but there is nothing you can do about it,' is simply not good enough."

She said the Criminal Justice System must step in with early and decisive intervention to protect victims and bring perpetrators to justice.

Norfolk's One Voice report, supported by the police, recommends the setting up of a dedicated centre for domestic violence in the city.

It suggests such a one-stop centre would provide the expertise for victims to obtain a safe, quick, confidential and consistent response, and help reduce attacks.

The report is the result of Norwich-based research commissioned after police noticed a high number of repeat victims of domestic violence in Norfolk, and particularly in Norwich.

The biggest overhaul of domestic violence legislation for 30 years was given the Royal Assent on Monday.