Domestic violence has often been a hidden crime kept strictly within the family.

But today is International White Ribbon Day, which is trying to bring the problem out into the open.

It's also the first anniversary of the Crown Prosecution Service's new policy, which seeks to bring more bullies to justice.

Sometimes this means difficult decisions, such as women giving evidence against their partners for the sake of their children.

But it must be done or the violence will go on and on and that should never be tolerated.

Women are being seriously injured, in some cases even killed, through violence at home, often in front of children.

Sometimes that violence is also directed against the youngsters.

Even then some women will still not give evidence against the attacker. How much better it is for everyone when the CPS now takes that decision out of their hands.