Because of the nature of the crime it is never possible to tell if the statistics tell the whole picture and it is still likely that there is many cases going unreported.

However, there has been a successful campaign to encourage victims to come forward and put their trust in the justice system to help put an end to the violence.

All domestic abuse is serious but when you look at the reports and see the numbers of murder, rape and indecent assault then it is apparent how cases can escalate.

The approach in Glasgow of acting on intelligence in a bid to prevent rather that react when it is too late has worked and is to be extended to other areas.

The focus must be maintained and while it will be good news to see the numbers reduced, it must also be hoped that those still hidden who are unable or unwilling to come forward just now are also reached.

Domestic abuse destroys lives and as a society we all have a duty to report information to the police and allow them to then follow up the inquiries.

Our police officers and support services like Assist and Women's Aid deserve our backing as we try to rid society of one of its worst scourges.

ANY action which can help reduce the level of domestic violence and abuse in Glasgow is worth taking.

Because of the nature of the crime it is never possible to tell if the statistics tell the whole picture and it is still likely that there is many cases going unreported.

However, there has been a successful campaign to encourage victims to come forward and put their trust in the justice system to help put an end to the violence.

All domestic abuse is serious but when you look at the reports and see the numbers of murder, rape and indecent assault then it is apparent how cases can escalate.

The approach in Glasgow of acting on intelligence in a bid to prevent rather that react when it is too late has worked and is to be extended to other areas.

The focus must be maintained and while it will be good news to see the numbers reduced it must also be hoped that those still hidden who are unable or unwilling to come forward just now are also reached.

Domestic abuse destroys lives and as a society we all have a duty to report information to the police and allow them to then follow up the inquiries.

Our police officers and support services like Assist and Women's Aid deserve our backing as we try to rid society of one of its worst scourges.