A new crackdown on domestic abuse was launched by Herts police on Friday, with the hashtag #trustinus.

The social media strategy was unveiled at Hertfordshire Constabulary’s headquarters by Assistant Chief Constable Mick Ball, police and crime commissioner David Lloyd and Sarah Hill, an independent domestic violence advisor.

As part of the campaign, users on Twitter and Facebook are being encouraged to send photos holding hands with each other as a show of support and follow the hashtag #trustinus.

Police have also updated a dedicated webpage which offers advice and now includes a step-by-step guide to the different forms domestic abuse can take.

Asst Chf Con Ball said: “Domestic abuse is an appalling crime which has devastating effects on not only victims, but their families, friends and society.

“By launching this campaign we are not only raising awareness of the different forms domestic abuse can take, but we are also encouraging victims to speak out and come forward. We will listen to you and help you.

“We need the public to help us tackle domestic abuse and I would encourage members of the public to come forward and support our campaign to raise awareness, offer support and encourage reporting – we all have a role to play in protecting further victims.”

The senior officer pointed out myriad patterns of behaviour covered by domestic abuse could include physical, sexual or financial coercion and control.

He said the cost to society of domestic abuse ran to £15.7bn a year, with 4,000 reported cases in Hertfordshire last year and 2,500 reported crimes.

He said a new tool in the armoury against bullying was Domestic Violence Protection Orders, with 21 orders which enforce time and space between people in abusive relationships issued to date.

For more visit www.herts.police.uk/advice/domestic_abuse.aspx.