Quiz over violence in home

Jun 30 2006

POLICE were today continuing to quiz three men suspected of domestic violence who were arrested during swoops in south Birmingham.

They were held during raids on 19 addresses yesterday and over the next few days officers will be visiting 13 more homes.

They have drawn up a hit list of 16 men they believe are persistently inflicting violence, the majority on their wives and girlfriends.

Det Chief Insp Fiona Irving said: "As well as arresting the suspects we want to get the message across to victims that we are doing something for them."

The Lantern Project, which is based at Bournville Lane, helps battered wives.

The project has received funding by the Big Lottery Fund which will enable it to continue for another three years.

It gives victims "mentors" who act as life coaches to the women, helping them rebuild their self-esteem and move on after years of abuse.

Project manager Judy Morgan: "To know we have got funding in place for another three years is tremendous news and means we can help many more women."