DOMESTIC violence in Halton is in the spotlight as a helpline is extended.

The service, offered by The Relationships Centre and its partners including Halton Domestic Abuse Forum, is now running all day.

To highlight the helpline, taxis in Widnes and Runcorn will be advertising the number on their taxis with specially designed livery after a successful pilot scheme in Runcorn.

Sally Clarke, Halton's domestic abuse co-ordinator, said: "Partners of the Domestic Abuse Forum are working closely to ensure the success of the specialist domestic violence court in Halton.

"The commitment of the CPS, probation, the court itself, the police and the Relationship Centre are dedicated to improving the criminal justice system and delivering high quality support services for survivors of abuse."

The Crown Prosecution Service recently announced that there had been significant improvements in the way that it responds to domestic abuse.

The charity Women's Aid believes that an increase in conviction rates and the introduction of 25 specialist domestic violence courts, including one in Halton, will encourage women to report domestic abuse.

Figures show that more cases of common assault are being charged, with 75 per cent of cases being charged compared to 51 per cent in 2004.

Also, cases that were prosecuted in the specialist domestic violence courts saw 71 per cent of defendants convicted.

Cheshire Police have a dedicated team of six officers who are specially trained to deal with cases of domestic violence and offer support and advice for anyone on how to get out of their situation as well as taking action against the perpetrator.

If you are, or know someone who is suffering as a result of domestic abuse, call the 24-hour domestic abuse helpline on 0800 783 9636.