Women’s refuges set to receive £20million ‘lifeline’ in step towards ending domestic violence scandal vows Tory MP Sajid Javid as he backs Sun’s campaign
Communities Secretary will guarantee new funds to stop the vital centres from closing as he heaps praise on our campaign
WOMEN’s refuges are to be given a vital £20 million lifeline today in a huge step towards ending the domestic violence scandal that shames the UK.
Communities Secretary Sajid Javid will guarantee new funds to stop the vital centres from closing – and heap praise on The Sun’s widely-praised Give Me Shelter campaign.
Under the funding plan, councils will be able to bid for their share of £20 million-worth of cash to safeguard centres and help “women, children and families” rebuild their lives.
The Tory big hitter will say: “The Sun has led a hugely important campaign, reporting on the shocking experiences of brave mums, daughters and sisters who have suffered abuse by violent partners.
“I’m proud of the steps we have already taken as a government to help those at risk from becoming victims of abuse.
“But we must redouble our efforts to ensure nobody who needs help is turned away.”
The Sun launched Give Me Shelter last year, urging the Government to reverse the spate of refuge closures for women at risk of domestic abuse.
Since 2010, some 32 refuge centres for victims had been shut by cost-cutting despite shock figures showing that two women are being killed by partners each week.
Ex-Chancellor George Osborne promised £3.2 million within a matter of months in a crucial first victory.
Last month, Prime Minister Theresa May ordered at risk refuges to be exempt from the housing benefit cap in a another big success.
Some seven out of 10 centres were at threat from the financial clampdown.
Today’s latest victory completes a stunning hat-trick for the Sun. Mr Javid said the £20 million would increase refuge space – ensuring victims have somewhere safe to live and recover.
New guidelines will be sent to local authorities to detail how they should respond to domestic violence.
The announcement is part of a first wave of £40 million-worth of funding dedicated to supporting abuse victims in the 2015 Spending Review.
Mr Javid said: “Domestic violence can happen to any one of us.
“What starts out as petty jealousy or controlling behaviour can soon spiral out of control to physical violence.
“This new £20 million fund to increase refuge spaces and other accommodation will ensure many more women, children and families are protected from harm and have the support they need to rebuild their lives.”