A DRAFT regional strategy to continue to tackle domestic and sexual violence against women in Gwent has been endorsed by Blaenau Gwent council.

The strategy has been put together by the Gwent Violence against Women, Domestic Abuse & Sexual Violence Board (VAWDASV).

Cllr John Mason, the executive member for social services, said: “It is vital that partners work together to tackle the issue of domestic and sexual abuse against women, men and their families so I am delighted the executive committee endorsed this strategy.

“The strategy is designed to improve our response as public sector bodies to this type of violence and to look at how we consistently provide protective, supportive and most importantly preventative services to those affected and their families.

“The strategy shows how we will work together to achieve better outcomes for victims and their families and how progress will be monitored.”

The board, which includes the five Gwent councils, will put forward their views before the strategy is finalised.