MORE than a third of domestic violence cases in Essex are discontinued because the victim does not support a prosecution, new figures reveal.

Prosecutors were unable to bring charges in 6,100 domestic abuse cases last year, despite knowing the identity of the alleged perpetrator, because victims withdrew their cooperation.

A further 3,168 cases were dropped because of other “evidential difficulties”.

In total, Essex Police recorded a total of 13,568 domestic violence cases between January 1 and December 31, an increase of 1,488 on the previous year.

However, nearly three quarters of those cases did not reach court.

The figures were uncovered by law firm Simpson Millar, using Freedom of Information requests. The firm found that nationwide, more than 100,000 cases are dropped each year.

Jennie Hubbard, chief executive of SOS Domestic Abuse Projects, based in Southend, said going through with a prosecution can be “deeply harrowing” for victims.

She said: “Sadly, we don’t find these figures surprising. We have been supporting women and families in Southend who have experienced abuse for over 40 years.

“In that time, we have found that the support that victims receive from the police and statutory services has improved.

“Agencies are getting better at working together to help victims. Unfortunately, going to court, or progressing with a prosecution is still deeply harrowing.

“Through the provision of crisis advice and support, refuge accommodation, recovery work with children and families and a male victim service, we are able to support victims at each stage of their journey, but the choice of whether to proceed with prosecutions is ultimately up to them.”

Emma Pearmaine, director of family services at Simpson Millar, said victims “live in an intricate and harrowing matrix of lies and fear”.

She said: “Victims, and women especially, are often either unable to provide evidence about their abuse, or decide to withdraw what evidence they have presented, because they feel coming forward will put themselves, their children and family members at significant risk of serious harm.

“More resources are needed to identify alternative avenues of collecting evidence and building a case against abusers without putting the victim at risk. This is a challenge, I know, but one which must be addressed in the face of these latest figures.”

She added that it can be difficult for the victim to leave the relationship safely and victims need help and support, often to guarantee their personal safety and that of their children.

Polly Neate, chief executive of Women’s Aid, said a culture of “victim-blaming and fear” stops women in their tracks.

She said: “We also know that there is a significantly heightened risk for women in the first year after separation from a perpetrator – therefore, robust support and protection is needed during that time.

“With two women a week on average being killed by a partner or ex-partner in England and Wales, it is vital that we take these findings seriously.”

Anyone experiencing domestic abuse can contact SOS Domestic Abuse Projects on 01702 302333 for advice and support. In an emergency, always dial 999.