Devon domestic abuse victims to receive 'life-saving' support
It's thanks to £125 million of funding announced by the Minister for Rough Sleeping and Housing
Domestic abuse victims and children in the south west are going to benefit from £11 million of funding.
The money - which was announced by Eddie Hughe, Minister for Rough Sleeping and Housing - will be allocated to local councils.
It will ensure that those who are suffering can access life-saving support, such as therapy, advocacy and counselling in safe accommodation, including refuges.
The funding is part of a wider package of support for victims of rape and domestic abuse announced last week; and is a key part of the Government's Domestic Abuse Bill.
The duty will come into effect later this year, subject to the Bill becoming law.
"Domestic abuse is a heinous crime which threatens the lives of victims in their own homes where they should feel safe. So it's right that we're giving victims support in safe accommodation and providing South West councils with money to deliver essential services that will help them and their children rebuild their lives."
Eddie Hughes MP - Minister for Housing and Rough Sleeping
Here is a breakdown of how the funding will be allocated to Tier 1 local authorities in the south west:
- Bath and North East Somerset - £311,380
- Bristol, City of -£1,079,426
- Cornwall - £1,173,569
- Devon - £1,421,907
- Gloucestershire - £1,105,661
- North Somerset - £378,304
- Plymouth -£589,824
- Somerset - £1,041,540
- Swindon - £430,326
- Torbay - £308,541
- Wiltshire - £830,051
The funding has been allocated following consultation and is in addition to £6 million given last year to help councils prepare for the duty.