A new virtual response team at Dyfed-Powys Police is giving domestic abuse victims more choice in how they communicate with police officers.

The Domestic Abuse Video Response Unit (DAVRU) allows victims to opt for a video call from a police officer when they report a non-urgent domestic-related incident.

For incidents graded as high risk, officers will continue to attend immediately in person.

To make use of the DAVRU, victims must still report an incident in the usual way – by calling 999 or 101, reporting online, or sending a direct message on social media.

The call handler will then triage the incident and determine if it is suitable for a video response.

It is up to the victim to accept the option of a video call, and their details will be sent to a DAVRU officer if they consent.

According to a spokesperson, most victims now receive a call back within 24 hours and can make an appointment to discuss the full details of the incident.

Incidents considered too high risk, or ongoing, will be dealt with by frontline officers.

Chief Inspector Gerallt Jones said: "The DAVRU allows victims of domestic-related offences which are not high risk to receive a frontline response when they need it.

"Previously, the incident would be assigned to a local officer for contact to be made, and as a result of huge demand on our resources, some victims were unfortunately waiting too long to speak to someone.

"Our video response service now allows us to identify risk and carry out an assessment of evidential opportunities at an earlier stage, and also to start putting support in place for people living with domestic abuse.

"Not only that, but for many victims the benefit has been in communicating with officers remotely, which is more discreet than having police at their home and less daunting than having to visit a police station.

"Both of these might previously have been a barrier to reporting."

If you need to report domestic abuse, stalking, or harassment, you can contact Dyfed-Powys Police in the following ways:

• Report online: https://bit.ly/DPPContactOnline

• Email: 101@dyfed-powys.pnn.police.uk

• Call: 101

• If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or speech impaired, text the non-emergency number on 07811 311 908

In an emergency, always call 999.

If you feel you need support in contacting police, organisations that can help are listed at https://www.dyfed-powys.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/daa/domestic-abuse/support-organisations/