Extra funding for domestic abuse victims in Wiltshire

This money will be given to charities or social enterprises to help reach the additional costs they've incurred due to the pandemic.

PCC Angus Macpherson will distribute the funding in order to help better support and reach out to victims of domestic abuse and sexual violence in the county.

The funding is on top of the cash received in May from the MOJ and will be used to cover the period from 31st October to 31st March 2021.

It's hoped charities will be able to cope better with increased demand thanks to the additional money.

During the pandemic, domestic abuse incidents have increased by 9% compared to pre-Covid times, with an average of 40 a day being reported during the first lockdown.

Police and Crime Commissioner Angus Macpherson said:

"This second set of funding to address domestic abuse and sexual violence of £180-thousand from the Ministry Of Justice is again very welcome.

I am pleased that the government recognises that important services helping domestic abuse and sexual abuse victims need additional help during the ongoing pandemic.

Back in March, when this all started, no-one knew that we would still be in the same situation eight months on.

Sadly, an increase in domestic abuse and sexual violence was to be expected when lockdown started and that has been proven in our figures. That's why this money is so important - supplementing funding to those organisations and their work which my office already support and plan to support going forward."

In June, the Swindon Domestic Abuse Support Service and the Splitz helpline saw a 30% rise in calls on last year and almost 40% increase in community service referrals.

OPCC Victims and Vulnerability Commissioning Manager Maria Milton said:

"The additional funding announcement is again welcome.

Covid-19 has had a significant effect on all victims, and that's been reflected in the ongoing good work by charities and organisations across our county. They've worked and continue to work to ensure additional support to victims of domestic abuse and sexual violence at this unprecedented time.

This extra money will enable greater help and reach for those who need it."

WHERE TO FIND SUPPORT

Anyone looking to get some help and support for domestic abuse can get it from the Splitz Support Service.

You can call them on:

• 01225 775276 (Monday - Friday, 8.00am - 5.00pm)

• 01793 610610 (Monday - Friday, 5.00pm - 9.00am and 24 hours a day at weekends and on bank holidays)

Alternatively you can visit their website www.splitz.org.