A new policy for tackling domestic abuse has been launched by Cardiff's social justice minister.

Edwina Hart said the aim of the strategy was to establish a network of services for victims of domestic violence across Wales.

It will involve a funding increase of £1.1m over the next three years to organisations such as Women's Aid. The policy has been developed with experts from a range of agencies who deal with the issue.

"I believe our strategy sets an important framework for the development of local action to combat this problem - which, sadly affects not only women but also men and children, too," Hart said.

"I will be looking to Community Safety Partnerships across Wales to make sure the strategy is put into effect - and I look forward to seeing detailed policies for combating domestic abuse as part of each partnership's community safety plan."

Also launched at the event on Wednesday was Caerphilly Council's directory of services and agencies working to help victims of domestic abuse.

Hart said the directory was an "excellent example" of the joint agency working that is needed to tackle domestic abuse.

She added: "For too long, domestic violence was seen as a private family matter but, thankfully, things are changing and we now recognise it as the serious crime it is."