CALLS to “domestic related incidents” in Dorset have increased by just over a quarter since lockdown measures were introduced, police figures show.

Mirroring the rising demand on charities’ domestic abuse helplines, Dorset Police said there was a 27 per cent rise in reports that did not meet the criminal threshold between March 23 and April 19.

However, it said figures for “high risk” domestic abuse and criminal behaviour had “remained stable” over the same period.

Concerns have been raised that the measures introduced last month to kerb the spread of the coronavirus could exacerbate issues.

Charities have said increased isolation at home and the increased difficulty of accessing some support services could lead to more abuse taking place.

Refuge said calls to its national helpline were up 49 per cent on their normal level in the third week of the lockdown.

Dorset Police superintendent Gemma Morris said there had been no real change in the number of domestic abuse crimes being recorded in the county.

But she said there had been a 27 per cent increase in “domestic related incidents” that do not meet the threshold of being a crime.

This, she said, was a “positive indication” that people were still coming forward and seeking help from the force and other organisations.

“What this appears to indicate at this stage is that the rise in domestic related incidents centres around family disharmony but where no offence has taken place,” she said.

“We feel that this is a positive indication that people are still reporting matters to us and accessing support services, particularly before the situation has escalated to a criminal level.”

She said Dorset Police was “committed” to working with a range of organisations to provide support.

“It is a tense and anxious time for people not least due to health, finances and everybody being at home,” she added. “When tensions start to rise it is okay to leave the house to cool off in order to take some time out, call a friend or reach out for some help and advice.”

There are several organisations providing support services related to domestic abuse although people should call 999 if their or their children’s lives are in danger. Help is also available through the non-emergency 101 lines.

The You First helpline for Dorset can be called on 0800 032 5204 while there are outreach services for Poole (01202 710777) and Bournemouth (01202 547641).

Victim Support also provides a web-based live chat at victimsupport.org.uk/help-and-support/get-help/support-near-you/south-west/dorset