Sir Robert Buckland MP has welcomed the latest Government funding set to aid domestic abuse victims in breaking free from their abusers and rebuilding their lives.
Effective from January 31st, victims without financial means can seek a one-off payment of up to £500 via over 470 support services. This supports essential needs like groceries, nappies, or assistance with new accommodation, facilitating their escape to safety.
For the first time, victims can also apply for an additional one-off payment of up to £2,500 to ensure a sustainable, independent future, assisting with aspects like securing rental accommodation. The fund operates through referrals from local frontline services in England and Wales, ensuring targeted aid. Running until March 2025, the initiative expands on a successful Home Office-funded pilot with Women’s Aid, aiding over 600 victims.
Sir Robert, Co-Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Domestic Violence and Abuse, commends the initiative saying, “for too long victims of domestic abuse have lived in fear because of worries about the cost of leaving abusive homes.
“The new funding that is being offered to individual victims of domestic abuse, which will involve payment of up to £2.5k to help with a new deposit on a new house or flat, is an excellent step forward to help liberate thousands of victims of domestic abuse from the tyranny from having to stay in an abusive environment because of fear of cost.
“I welcome this Government’s initiative; it is the first one in the world and it deserves our thanks and praise.
“Tackling Domestic Abuse has always been an important priority of mine. As Justice Secretary and Lord Chancellor, I worked hard on the Domestic Abuse Bill. This landmark piece of legislation strengthened our response to domestic abuse and its many forms. From outlawing non-fatal strangulation to giving better protections in court – delivering the support victims need to feel safer while ensuring perpetrators face justice for the torment they have inflicted.
“I am determined to continue to do all I can to better protect and support the victims of domestic abuse and their children.”
Home Secretary James Cleverly underscores the importance of assisting victims in securing essentials, preventing homelessness, and rebuilding their lives. Minister for Victims and Safeguarding, Laura Farris, acknowledges the fund’s role in helping victims escape dangerous situations, emphasising the government’s commitment to protecting victims through legislative measures.
During the pilot, 83.4% of applicants intended to use payments to flee abusers, showcasing the fund’s immediate impact. Notably, 77.6% utilised the funds for essential goods, improving mental health and peace of mind. This aligns with Women’s Aid research highlighting financial struggles as a barrier to leaving abusive relationships.
Women’s Aid Chief Executive, Farah Nazeer, appreciates the funding’s potential to make life-changing improvements, ensuring survivors receive vital support. Melanie Brown, MBE, Women’s Aid Patron, expresses gratitude for the fund’s continuation, recognising its impact on women and children’s lives.
“This year’s funding will make life-changing improvements to the lives of countless adult and child survivors,” she said.
This fund will allow victims to take those first steps towards a life free of abuse. Farah continued “We are immensely proud to be a part of this, especially during our 50th year, and believe that by allowing more survivors to escape their abusers, we are taking steps in the right direction to building a society in which domestic abuse is no longer tolerated.”
Nicole Jacobs, Domestic Abuse Commissioner for England and Wales, applauds the government’s Flexible Fund, anticipating its lifeline impact on victims. The initiative complements the government’s broader Domestic Abuse Plan, reflecting its ongoing commitment to combatting violence against women and girls.
