The new project is being tested by Safer Families Gateshead.

Victims will be offered practical help and support within 24 hours of reporting attacks to ensure better protection for them and their children.

The Northern Rock Foundation has provided �1.9m over five years and the project is being overseen by organisations including the police.

Pursue cases

The scheme was being launched on Wednesday afternoon at The Sage Gateshead.

The consortium overseeing the services includes Northumbria Police, the Crown Prosecution Service, Gateshead Council and led by Aquila Way.

The Northern Rock Foundation initiated the scheme by inviting groups to develop new services in urban and rural areas.

Help will be offered to victims in the 24 hours following an attack, to ensure their safety and ability to access the services they need. It will include help to pursue a case against the perpetrator.

The service will be available from 1000 to 0200 BST seven days a week.