Volunteers will be sent out to the scene of a violent domestic dispute to help the victims as part of a new scheme set up in the Midlands.

Victims will be offered alternative accommodation and transport so they can get away from the scene as soon as possible.

Crisis Intervention Service (CIS) is a three-month pilot scheme launched in Walsall on Monday.

Police contact the CIS manager as soon as someone is arrested for domestic violence so volunteers can be sent out to look after the victim.

Unique service

The Walsall Domestic Violence Forum in partnership with both Willenhall and Walsall police set up the scheme, which is funded by New Deal for Communities and the local authority.

PC Nicky Gribbin, domestic violence liaison officer said: "It is hoped that this unique service will encourage more victims of domestic violence to come forward and help reduce repeat victimisation."

Sheri Rogers, domestic violence co-ordinator for Walsall, said: " The CIS is a national first which will allow us to offer support to the victims of domestic violence at the earliest opportunity following police attendance at a domestic violence incidents.

"Trained volunteers will make contact with the victims and any children to explain the options open to them.