30 July 2012 Last updated at 07:28 ET

Wigtownshire Women's Aid cases rising 'year on year'

The head of an aid group set up 25 years ago to help women and children suffering from domestic abuse has said its case-load is continuing to grow.

Wigtownshire Women's Aid started out mainly as a counselling service but quickly extended its operations.

A communal refuge opened in 1992, followed by another six properties across the area.

Co-ordinator Hazel Maider said it continued to see the need for its services rise in south west Scotland.

"Our numbers have increased year on year," she said.

"In part, I think some of it is maybe down to awareness raising.

"People are more aware of being in an abusive relationship now and probably ask for help in a relationship sooner than they did in the past."

The services offered by the group have been praised by the region's Deputy Chief Constable, Mike McCormick.

He chairs Dumfries and Galloway's Domestic Abuse and Violence against Women Partnership.

He said the role played by non-statutory organisations - such as Women's Aid - was vital and paid tribute to those who got involved as support workers.