A SCHEME that has successfully reduced domestic violence in Bournemouth and Poole is due to close in May - unless it can find last-minute funding of more than £100,000.

The Change Project was launched by the charity Family Matters three years ago with £400,000 from the National Lottery, and grants from local authorities. It has so far helped 75 families.

An estimated 80 per cent of Dorset murders are related to domestic violence.

With the Change Project, perpetrators attend sessions aimed at changing their behaviour, while partners and children are given a programme of help and support.

Research carried out by the charity found that incidents of domestic violence had become fewer and less severe among families using the project.

Many youngsters had been able to come out of child protection measures, including being in care, and women on the programme had gained self-esteem, with some returning to work or going to college.

But despite the success of the project, organisers have been unable to secure enough money to keep it going for another year.

A statement from the charity's board said: "Family Matters does not have the reserves to be able to operate services without financial support and as such, we have no option open to us other than to close the project down with effect on May 10."

Chairman of trustees Ron Lock said: "We have proved that this innovative project has worked in addressing some complex problems of domestic violence and abuse.

"It is disheartening for our trustees and staff that we have been unable to secure enough funding to continue its work, but it is the local families embroiled in the trauma of domestic violence who will feel the greatest impact."

Manager Roni Jones said the project had received supportive emails and calls from colleagues in the police, social services and legal system.

"If we can identify £106,000 by April 10, we can reverse this decision and operate for another full year," she said.