NEW orders are helping to keep victims of domestic violence safe, for a few weeks at least.

More than 100 domestic violence prevention orders have been issued in Essex.

These are given when there is not enough evidence to charge a suspect but where there are still serious concerns about the safety of residents.

The orders give police the power to force suspects to leave the property where the alleged violence occured and prevent them entering again or having any contact with the alleged victim for up to 28 days.

Officers initially hand out a notice, following permission from a superintendent or higher.

These notices are then challenged in court with magistrates able to enforce the notice with an order or revoke the notice.

Adam Hunt, head of Legal Services at Essex Police, said: "We will continue to put together the best possible case to support our officers who are using this new legislation to protect vulnerable women and men.”

Det Chief Insp Tom Simons said: "These orders can bridge the gap in providing immediate emergency protection to a victim.

"A breach of an order can lead to a maximum fine of £5,000 or a two month prison sentence.”

Seven men have been jailed in Essex for breaching the orders.

The domestic violence protection orders have been widely welcomed by domestic abuse campaigners however there are some concerns from civil rights groups about police and court orders being issued where no crime is proven.