Paul Howell MP very much welcomes the news that domestic abuse victims will be given fresh support to escape abuse.
Hundreds of domestic abuse victims will receive lifeline payments to help them escape tormenting and often life-threatening abuse, and to help rebuild their lives thanks to an additional £2 million investment, the Home Office announced yesterday.
From 31st January, victims of domestic abuse who do not have the financial means to leave their abusers will be able to apply for a one-off payment of up to £500 via one of over 470 support services, for essential items such as groceries, nappies or support with new accommodation to help them and their children flee to safety.
For the first time, victims can also apply for a further one-off payment of up to £2,500 to help secure a sustainable independent future, such as putting down a deposit for rental accommodation. This will help them move forward with their lives and prevent homelessness or pressure to return to abusers because of financial strain.
The fund will be delivered via referrals from a network of local frontline services in England and Wales including organisations, helplines and caseworkers who have a specialist understanding of domestic abuse.
The fund, which will initially last until March 2025, builds on a successful pilot funded by the Home Office and delivered with Women’s Aid last year which, helped over 600 victims to safety. Women’s Aid have been re-appointed to deliver this additional funding alongside hundreds of domestic abuse services across England and Wales.
Paul Howell MP said:
"I am very happy the government fund for survivors of domestic abuse will continue and an additional £2 million investment has been introduced by the Home Office this week.
Tackling violence and abuse against women and girls is a top priority and I know this funding is very much needed and the difference can be between life and death for domestic abuse victims.
The payments cover essentials such as food, clothing and nappies, and will also help victims keep a roof over their heads."
Minister for Victims and Safeguarding, Laura Farris said:
"Women leave abusive partners at what is often the lowest point in their lives. The most common issues - kids, lack of money and confidence, fear of reprisal - keep so many victims locked into dangerous and harmful situations for far too long.
I am proud this fund has helped over 600 people to escape their abusers and find safety and hope this additional £2 million will help hundreds more find peace and rebuild their lives. I am also proud of, and grateful to, Women’s Aid, for the extraordinary service they provide to some of the most desperate women in society.
The money complements the action this government has taken to protect victims - including our landmark Domestic Abuse Act which significantly expanded the definition of the offence, created more robust protections and tougher sentences."
