DORSET Police is one of the top 10 police forces in the country for dealing with domestic violence, a report says.

The report, issued by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary (HMIC), assesses the way Dorset Police deals with domestic abuse.

The force's overall response to tackling domestic violence was praised - making it eighth out of 43 forces in England and Wales.

In September 2013 HMIC reviewed all 43 forces in England and Wales as well as speaking to victims of domestic abuse, professionals and public protection experts.

The report states that generally Dorset Police provides a good service to victims of domestic abuse and helps to keep them safe.

But, the report says, improvements must be made to give front-line officers more training and develop a more considered approach to include taking the victim’s view.

It also proposed a review of how medium and standard risk perpetrators are managed so that it can reduce re-offending and improve victim safety.

Assistant chief constable David Lewis said: “We continue to train our frontline staff in public protection issues and are continually reviewing our processes.

“Dorset Police has seen a rise in the number of reported cases of domestic abuse in recent years and I believe this is largely due to victims willing to report it to the police and take action against the perpetrator.

“We have taken a number of steps to help support victims in reporting these crimes and we work in close partnership with other support agencies.

“The force was found to have a 'well-developed' and 'effective' response to high risk victims, and its staff work well with partners in external agencies.”

ACC David Lewis added that the public in Dorset can have confidence that the force provides a good service to victims, although it will not become complacent.

“We have just successfully implemented the introduction of the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme (Clare’s Law) to Dorset which gives potential victims information about the history of their partner, so they can make an informed decision about the relationship," he said.

Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner Martyn Underhill said: “I am delighted that the HMIC inspection has identified Dorset Police as having a significant focus on the victims of domestic abuse and violence and that the Force are working effectively with partners in responding to, and supporting, high risk victims.

“The inspection has also highlighted some areas for improvement and I will be working with the Chief Constable and other chief officers to ensure that the policing response to domestic abuse and violence in Dorset continues to develop and improve.”