DOMESTIC violence is a crime which all too often happens behind closed doors.

Friends and family may suspect something is wrong but be reluctant to raise the subject.

And many victims fear the consequences of turning to professionals for help so suffer in silence.

But help is at available to allow them to escape a life of misery and start again.

Medics Against Violence is one of a number of organisations which offers a lifeline to victims who don't know where to turn.

It trains professionals to spot the signs of domestic abuse and raise it with clients without putting anyone at risk.

So far 2000 dentists, doctors, vets, firefighters and medical students have benefitted from the training.

And the Scottish Government has now provided funding to expand the service across Scotland.