PCC John Campion is reminding victims of domestic abuse that support is there, after a report highlighted that the cost of living is making it harder for people to flee.
The report, issued by leading domestic abuse charity Women’s Aid, found that 96 per cent of the 137 women polled have had their finances harmed by the rising cost of living.
Funding was renewed earlier this year to support West Mercia Women’s Aid’s Independent Domestic Violence Advisors (IDVAs) scheme for another three years.
IDVAs provide specialist tailored support to all high-risk victims of domestic abuse across West Mercia. A Young Person’s IDVA has also been launched for one year to support those aged over 13 who are experiencing domestic abuse in their own relationships.
The PCC also committed £2 million to extend Cranstoun’s ‘Drive’ project, which runs across Herefordshire and Worcestershire, to reduce the number of child and adult victims of domestic abuse by working with perpetrators to change their behaviour.
PCC John Campion said: “I understand the rising cost of living and today’s news about an interest rates rise is going to be causing stress and worry in homes across West Mercia. No one should feel isolated and alone if they are enduring domestic abuse – please don’t suffer in silence, the support is there.
“The latest Women’s Aid report makes it clear that financial pressures are making it harder for women to leave an abusive relationship. One of my top priorities is putting victims and survivors first. By continuing to fund these important services for another three years, they will ensure support is available to those who need it.”
The Drive Project – http://driveproject.org.uk/
West Mercia Women’s Aid – https://www.westmerciawomensaid.org/
Domestic abuse helpline in Herefordshire, Shropshire and Telford and Wrekin – 0800 783 1359
Helpline in Worcestershire – 0800 980 3331