VICTIMS of domestic abuse are being urged to speak out one year after a new law was introduced that targets those who mentally abuse their partners.

A law introduced on December 29 last year gives police new powers to take action against those who are “repeatedly or continuously” emotionally abusive.

In Gloucestershire, the law has resulted in the longest custodial sentence in the country so far.

Police believe four people have been arrested under the new law in Gloucestershire, resulting in two charges that both led to convictions.

Sally Morrissey, services manager at Gloucestershire Domestic Abuse and Support Service (GDASS) said there are many more victims who have not yet come forward.

She said: “We are really pleased that the new law has been introduced.

“Coercive control underpins all types of domestic abuse and this is a big step forward and will help victims.

“This year has really been about raising awareness about what coercive control is.

“We always expected it to be a slow start but moving forward we expect there to be an increase in prosecutions next year.”

Two people have been convicted under the new law in Gloucestershire since it was introduced.

Lee Coleman, formerly of South Cerney, was jailed for three years after he threatened to smother his partner to death and later held a pillow down over her face as she slept.

This is the longest prison sentence in the country made under the new law.

A Brockworth man was given a 16 week suspended sentence for 15 months, ordered to pay £200 costs and £300 in compensation and given a restraining order.

Detective superintendent Simon Atkinson, of Gloucestershire police said: “The new law gives us a chance to address this insidious crime, which often involves a pattern of assaults, threats, humiliation or other abuse.

“The net effect is that the victim becomes isolated from any support and deprived of their independence.

“In Gloucestershire we have already had a case go through the courts resulting in a three-year prison sentence - the longest in the country so far - and I hope that encourages people to come forward.

“However there is still a way to go to ensure all professionals are aware and can pick up the signs.

“We recently held 16 days of action to highlight the impact of coercive control and we will continue our efforts to reach victims and the public more widely to help people understand what coercive control is and that it does constitute an offence.

“Anyone who is suffering coercive control and needs support and advice can call Gloucestershire Rape and Sexual Abuse Centre on 01452 526770 or police on 101.

“More information on coercive control and other forms of abuse can be found at www.glostakeastand.com.”

PCC Martin Surl said police action is just part of the story.

He said: “We are starting to see a change in attitude by society and should take an holistic approach.

“I commend the work of organisations such as ‘The Hollie Gazzard Trust’ who are raising awareness in the work place, the public sector and the police.

“Schools and youth organisations have their part to play by helping young people develop healthy relationships, not as easy as it may appear and films such as ‘Friend Request’ commissioned by my office, have proved their value.

“Long term success will mean less victims, not just more convictions.”