It started with a knock at the door... then the horror was finally revealed

On a murky September morning in Oldham, a woman answered the door to find police standing there. They'd been called to a report of domestic violence, but the woman was afraid to make a formal complaint.

But unlike similar callouts police here respond to, this one was different. They weren't acting alone, and were joined by a highly skilled expert, an independent domestic abuse advisor (IDVA).

Together, they were able to explain the criminal process to the woman, and provide her with the reassurance that she'd be supported if she were to make a formal allegation.

It was only then that the woman opened up, and revealed the horror of what she'd been living through, providing police with the statement they needed to arrest and charge her alleged offender.

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The callout was part of a targeted crackdown by GMP in Oldham, who teamed up with the IDVA, along with the Greater Manchester organisation, Talk Listen Change' (TLC).

From Monday 11 September to Sunday 17 September, the force arrested 33 people on suspicion of domestic abuse related offences - including assault, stalking and harassment, and coercive and controlling behaviour.

Police in the borough have made their response to domestic abuse a number one priority, due to what bosses describe as a 'high percentage of calls' compared to the rest of Greater Manchester.

Chief Superintendent Phil Hutchinson is leading the latest drive. He told the Manchester Evening News he and his officers are committed to building trust and confidence with the most vulnerable people who