An online discussion is being held to give people affected by domestic violence the chance to talk to the police.

The virtual surgery is aimed at victims of domestic violence or people concerned that friends and family could be involved in abuse.

By logging onto the surgery section of the police website wwww.derbyshire.police.uk, people can speak anonymously to officers from 7pm onwards on Wednesday, March 9.

It is the first time the force has ever held an online session specifically around domestic violence. Surgeries have previously been held for people wanting to speak to their Safer Neighbourhood policing team or comment on policing issues.

Detective Inspector Mark Knibbs, from the force Domestic Abuse Unit, said: “People can talk to us in confidence for advice and support around any domestic abuse issues.

 “Sometimes people can find it difficult to talk face-to-face about their concerns so we hope this virtual surgery will give them another way of getting in touch.”