Suffolk's 1,300-strong domestic abuse champion network has been commended for going above and beyond for supporting victims in the county.

Nicole Jacobs, the Domestic Abuse Commissioner for England and Wales, met with members of Suffolk's network who have been raising awareness of the crime.

"The work of my office is rooted in the reality of local responses to domestic abuse that enhance our understanding and shape our priorities," she said.

READ MORE: 9,000 domestic abuse crimes reported in Suffolk in the last year

"My vision is a world where every part of society recognises and understands domestic abuse and plays a role in addressing it, so to see the Suffolk Domestic Abuse Champions network begin to bring that vision into reality for their local community is a real pleasure."

East Anglian Daily Times: Councillor Bobby Bennett, Suffolk County Council's cabinet member for equality and communities, with Nicole Jacobs, the Domestic Abuse Commissioner for England and Wales.Councillor Bobby Bennett, Suffolk County Council's cabinet member for equality and communities, with Nicole Jacobs, the Domestic Abuse Commissioner for England and Wales. (Image: Suffolk County Council)

Over 1,300 people have undertaken training to become the 'go-to person' for domestic abuse support and reporting in their communities.

Councillor Bobby Bennett, Suffolk County Council's cabinet member for equality and communities, said: "Reaching victims as early as possible is vital to prevent further harm, and the network, now 1,300 strong, is helping more and more people in Suffolk feel confident to offer advice and support to their colleagues, friends or family members.”