I am writing in response to Des Morgan's letter (November 29) in which he states that domestic violence has been a well-known problem for many years and suggests that Wiltshire Constabulary should, perhaps, have done something sooner.

In fact, domestic violence has been an issue for centuries. Unfortunately, until quite recently, it has not been recognised as a crime by police nationally nor as a serious issue by governments. I would like to reassure your readers that Wiltshire Constabulary do now respond positively to domestic violence.

However, such change has only occurred during the last five years in fact, with the appointment of the present Chief and (now) Deputy Chief Constable despite numerous approaches for many years from organisations like the Swindon Women's Refuge.

These officers recognised that the Constabulary's response to domestic violence in this county was inadequate. This was quickly rectified by the introduction of a new, comprehensive force policy compiled with assistance from external, agencies.

Also, specially trained officers were seconded to establish domestic violence units in each of the three divisions; recording and monitoring was improved; and officers were encouraged to be pro-active when responding to such incidents.

Wiltshire Constabulary's latest initiative is to develop a county-wide project which will provide an advocacy service to victims of domestic violence throughout the county. Wiltshire Constabulary, as the lead agency, is thus taking a more radical approach to this long-standing issue.

Swindon Women's Refuge hopes that at long last the tide is beginning to turn against domestic violence.

Jenni Manners

Manager

Swindon Women's Refuge