Up to 700 cases of domestic abuse reported on Island every year

Up to 650 - 700 cases of domestic abuse are reported on Island every year.

That's according to our Chief Constable - Gary Roberts.

However, he added police can't be sure of how 'reliable' the figure is - given it only takes into account those actually reported. 

Further, in its latest report - local charity Victim support - says 35% of its referrals were domestic abuse victims.

It comes as new domestic abuse laws are due to come into force on the Isle of Man in January.

The Act will provide a legal basis for support of those in abusive relationships, giving police and the courts new powers.