A CHARITY providing support to people experiencing domestic abuse has received £10,000 from Stratford District Council (SDC).
With the pandemic increasing the number of domestic abuse incidents, additional support for victims has been welcomed by Refuge which is commissioned by Warwickshire County Council to deliver safe accommodation and support to victims.
The funding, from SDC’s Covid-19 recovery plan, will enable outreach workers to meet people in the community, helping them keep safe and to understand their options.
Manager Rachel Shuter said: “This funding from Stratford District Council has enabled us to take on a part time outreach worker for six months, specifically for the Stratford area. “This means we can help more survivors of domestic abuse. Reaching out for help takes courage and being able to access support in their local area is crucial for our clients.”
SDC wellbeing spokeswoman Jo Barker added: “Domestic abuse impacts the lives of many of our residents, families and communities. I know, as I speak to a lot of – mostly – women about the dreadful domestic situations they survive or have fled from.
“The district council is well aware of the need for the services Refuge provides and has regularly promoted services for those experiencing domestic abuse in our resident’s Stratford View magazine and on its social media channels.
“I am pleased that work undertaken on the Covid-19 recovery plan has resulted in this funding being allocated for domestic abuse services.”
The authority recently supported the new Domestic Abuse Act 2021 which, among other things, legally defines domestic abuse includes emotional and financial abuse, coercive and controlling behaviour and post-separation abuse.
The act also includes changes that support victim/survivors and places a duty on local authorities in England to provide support to survivors and their children in refuges and other safe accommodation.
Anyone concerned about an abusive relationship can call Refuge on 0800 408 1552.
Alternatively visit www.talk2someone.org.uk/support-services for a number of organisations including domestic violence charities for men and LGBTQ+ communities.
