Domestic abuse victims to get new support from councils thanks to cash boost
VICTIMS of domestic abuse and their children are to receive more support thanks to a government cash boost for councils.
The money is going to local authorities to help them expand their aid services.
Councils across the Portsmouth area are each expected to receive about £50,000.
The windfall comes ahead of the introduction of landmark legislation which aims to give abuse victims and their families more help.
The Domestic Abuse Bill is currently before parliament.
The new law will come into force from April and places a new duty on council to provide safe accommodation to anyone fleeing abuse.
Announcing the cash boost yesterday, the minister for rough sleeping and housing Kelly Tolhust said the new funding would be critical in helping victims.
‘Survivors of domestic abuse need safe refuge in order to escape this heinous crime, and support to start to rebuild their lives,’ she said.
The cash windfall has been welcomed by Portsmouth’s community safety boss, Councillor Lee Hunt.
‘To be honest, we could use that amount 100 times over – it’s not enough but we will take it,’ he added.