Cheshire has seen a doubling of domestic abuse cases since the beginning of the pandemic, new figures reveal.

Statistics released by charity My CWA (Cheshire Without Abuse), which has been commissioned by the Police and Crime Commissioner PCC, revealed the number of victims it is supporting – which includes both adults and children – doubled from 200 pre-Covid to 400 today.

The commissioner, David Keane, recently held an online meeting with the charity to discuss the impact of the increased demand on their services.

Of the cases seen by the charity, 40 per cent were deemed high risk, meaning there is serious risk of harm or death.

In the last quarter alone they have seen two suicides and 13 attempts on life - with two of those coming in just the last week.

Mr Keane described tackling domestic violence as one of his "top priorities" and has gained funding for services aiming to help those in need, but believes more is needed from government to meet the additional demand on services.

The commissioner said: "There have been many tragedies throughout this pandemic and one has undoubtedly been the rise in domestic abuse.

"Domestic abuse can effect anyone in our communities, irrespective of their gender, age, sexual orientation or any other personal characteristic.

"Home should be a safe place, especially when it's where we're encouraged to stay in order to protect our health and that of our loved ones, family, friends and neighbours. But tragically for many people, home is not a safe place.

"We cannot, and must not, stand for this as a society."

"Working with partners, I am doing all I can to help ensure people in this situation get the help they need.

He added: "Working with partners, I am doing all I can to help ensure people in this situation get the help they need.

"I'd also like to encourage anyone who is suffering in this way to please get in touch with support services - they are there to help."

The Cheshire East Domestic Abuse Hub can be contacted by calling 0300 123 5101, as well as Cheshire Police on 101 or the National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 2000 247. In an emergency, call 999.