Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion has welcomed a £2 million investment from the Home Office to support victims escaping domestic abuse.
Today’s announcement will see hundreds of victims receive lifeline payments to help them escape tormenting and often life-threatening abuse, and to help rebuild their lives.
The latest support is just part of the ongoing work in West Mercia to put victims and survivors first. In December, the PCC announced funding for grab bags to give domestic abuse victims in Herefordshire basic essential items.
This has also been coupled with the purchase of smartphones for victims with the Hollie Guard Extra app downloaded on them, to allow contact with specialist agencies and their support network. The app also contains GPS tracking software to ensure a police response when a victim needs help.
From 31 January, the Home Office’s funding will support 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 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.
The PCC said: “I am committed to putting victims and survivors first, as set out in my Safer West Mercia Plan, so I fully support today’s announcement by the Home Office which will make a real difference to those escaping domestic abuse.
“This significant investment is another vital cog in the work already taking place in West Mercia to ensure victims are given the essential items they need to leave a perpetrator and the specialist support they need to cope and recover.”