THE chief officer of a national charity has called the rise of burglaries in Dorset "disturbing".

Diana Fawcett of independent charity Victim Support spoke out in response to the latest figures from the Office for National Statistics, which show reports of home burglaries are up by more than 300 per cent in a year.

“It’s disturbing to see such a rise in burglaries, which will no doubt be a cause for concern for people in the area," she said.

“These types of crime can have a significant impact. Burglary not only robs victims of their physical possessions – it can also rob people of their sense of security at home, a place where everyone should feel most safe.

"What’s important is that people know there is independent help and support available to them – whether or not they choose to report the incident to the police.”

Dorset's police and crime commissioner says the public’s ‘increased confidence’ helps to explain the jump in offences recorded across the county.

Martyn Underhill said the force has been involved in a series of high-profile initiatives, including domestic violence campaign ‘cut your strings’, which has led to more reports.

“Despite the rise, Dorset remains a safe place to work and live,” he said.

“It is important to acknowledge the increase in reporting crimes such as domestic crime and sexual offences as being a reflection of the increased confidence our communities have in the force.”

Mr Underhill says he will continue to work with police and other agencies to “understand what the figures are telling us and to find effective ways of reducing crime across Dorset.”

To contact Victim Support, call the charity's free 24/7 helpline on 0808 16 89 111 or visit victimsupport.org.uk