£4.4m of funding to support victims of domestic abuse and sexual violence across Thames Valley
It will support victims over the next three years
£4.4 million of additional funding will support victims of domestic abuse and sexual violence across the Thames Valley including here in Buckinghamshire.
Victims and survivors will now benefit from the extra support after the additional money was secured for the next three years.
This funding will be used to create new services where there is not currently any specialist support, including a new stalking service and increased support where there is currently a large area of demand.
It will also be utilised to create new specialist support for people with protected characteristics who are often under-represented in services.
Matthew Barber, Police and Crime Commissioner for Thames Valley, said:
“I am delighted to announce that my office has successfully secured this additional funding from the Ministry of Justice for the next three years. It will provide essential support to many organisations supporting victims of domestic abuse and sexual violence across the Thames Valley.
“This will also be used to fund dedicated posts to supporting particular groups who for a range of reasons can be less likely to access support such as men, older people and victims within LGBTQ+ and BAMER communities.
“Not only will this funding make a difference to these organisations, but also ensures victims and survivors are supported for the long-term. In addition, we will be able to increase the level of specialist service provision to provide victims better access to much needed support to help them recover from the harm they’ve experienced.”
A total of 19 organisations across Buckinghamshire, Berkshire and Oxfordshire will benefit from the funding including:
Aurora New Dawn - A new stalking service which will provide specialist support to victims of stalking across Thames Valley
Parents and Children Together (PACT) – Will provide group and one-to-one support (including play therapy) to children aged 5-11 who have witness domestic abuse across Berkshire and Oxfordshire
SAFE! - Funding three Independent Domestic/Sexual Violence Advisors (ISVA/IDVAs) for the Thames Valley and a group programme to support young people aged 11-18 who have experienced trauma due to domestic abuse.
Anyone who has experienced sexual violence or domestic abuse can access support through Victims First by calling 0300 1234 148 or by visiting the Victims First Website.