Extra Covid-19 emergency funding secured to help East Riding victims

Additional Covid-19 emergency funding has been secured to support victims of sexual violence and domestic abuse in the East Riding and the Humberside Police force area.

The money has been secured by Police and Crime Commissioner, Keith Hunter, from the Ministry of Justice to support those who need help from some of the most serious crimes throughout the coming winter, when demand on services is traditionally at its highest.

He says across England and Wales during the pandemic there has been a significant increase in the number of people accessing support for Sexual Violence and Domestic Abuse. Charities have reported a sharp increase in demand since the start of the first lockdown, including a 46% rise in calls nationally, with some victims feeling at greater risk of harm or deciding to report abuse for the first time. In addition to the increase in demand, due to the first lockdown there has been a surge in people attending Courts and this is adding increased strain to individuals and the workforce.

The funding will be used to provide additional resources to the workforce to build resilience and reduce the impact of increased demand and trial listings. It will also support in securing emergency accommodation and essentials such as food parcels.

Keith said:

“I am committed to putting victims and the most vulnerable at the heart of everything we do. This funding clearly honours this commitment. At the start of the first lockdown we secured over £300,000 from Government to support the most vulnerable victims and those experiencing the highest harm as a result of the pandemic.

“This is a continuation of the pledge and will ensure that those suffering from some of the most serious crimes can continue to access support to help them escape their ordeal and rebuild their lives, free from abuse”.