mounting alarm at abuse of women and children.

The multi-pronged drive will feature an Island-wide education programme about the problem.

And among those to be targeted for help will be potential sex attackers.

Counselling for rape victims will also be boosted, and rehabilitation schemes launched for offenders.

The moves have been spurred by a recent flood of violent attacks on women, who have become fearful of venturing out at night.

They will form a back-up for tough legislation being drawn up to make the streets safer.

A bill amending The Criminal Code is expected to be discussed by the House of Assembly before Christmas.

It is designed to stiffen penalties for offenders, and clamp down on carriers of fatal diseases who commit assault.

Husbands could also be charged for raping their wives, if the bill becomes law.

In addition, children will be able to give video-taped evidence in sex abuse court cases.

Government's commitment to stamp out abuse was reaffirmed in the Throne Speech last week.

It stated: "No individual should fear for his or her safety in this community and Government is determined to take further action to address this important issue.

"In particular, Government will be introducing amendments to The Criminal Code in this parliamentary session.'' Latest figures show there are 11 people serving jail sentences for rape, and three for attempted rape.

One person is in prison for unlawful carnal knowledge, and two for indecent assault.

There is one inmate doing time for intrusion of the privacy of a female.

Yesterday Health and Social Services Minister the Hon. Quinton Edness said he found the figures "alarming'' for a small community -- although they did not accurately reflect the problem.

"They do not by themselves give the full picture,'' he said.

Mr. Edness said he had become concerned by recent reports of attacks on women.

There had also been an increase in abuse of women and children over the last three to five years, he added.

Mr. Edness said a committee set up to tackle the problem had put forward recommendations for Government.

"We feel stiffer penalties are needed to meet concern in the community that some sentences meted are not adequate.

"There is also a body of thought that stiffer penalties can have some deterrent effect.'' Mr. Edness, however, stressed Government would not rely on legislation to combat the problem.

"Education is needed. We need to educate people and give them the information so they can protect themselves.

"We should also be offering help to people who may be potential rapists.'' Mr. Edness added: "Advisories will be sent out, but we are still working on what form these should take, how best to convey the message.''