NEARLY half a million pounds has been announced for a scheme aimed at preventing domestic abuse by recognising the early signs of abusive behaviour and stalking.

It is hoped the £445,892 funding, secured by Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, Julia Mulligan, will prevent domestic violence and abuse by curbing it at the source.

Ms Mulligan said: “All too often I hear from victims of domestic abuse and stalking that the warning signs were there before the abuse began.

“We need to make sure those warning signs are acted upon in the future - both by giving those at risk of abuse the confidence to come forward and report their fears.”