PLANS to reform the law to tackle domestic violence has been welcomed by a Cheshire police chief.

Police and crime commissioner David Keane believes it is crucial to protect victims.

Central government has opened its consultation to obtain feedback on its draft Domestic Abuse Bill.

The consultation sets out the government’s approach to dealing with domestic abuse.

It seeks to address it at every stage from prevention through to rehabilitation.

Through the consultation, the government wants to harness the knowledge and expertise of victims and survivors, support organisations and research experts.

They are also interested in hearing the views of professionals across policing, criminal justice, health, welfare, education and local authorities who deal with these issues every day.

Mr Keane said: “Domestic abuse is a highly complex issue that has the potential to cause life changing harm to victims and their families.

“Therefore, reforms that seek to further recognise the many ways in which such abusive behaviour can be perpetrated, and seeks to further protect people who suffer such abuse, are welcome.

“It is essential that any such reforms consider and are interlinked with the broader response to domestic abuse, which includes the sustainable and adequate funding of refuges so those fleeing domestic abuse can do so to a place where they feel and can be safe.

“I will be taking a keen interest in reading the detail of the government’s consultation on the draft Domestic Abuse Bill launched today and will be working both locally and nationally to respond and influence the final legislation.”

The consultation runs until May 31, 2018.

Visit gov.uk/government/consultations/domestic-abuse-bill-consultation to read the consultation document.