Money to help abuse victims in Cheshire
ALMOST half a million pounds has been secured to help support victims of domestic abuse across Halton and the rest of Cheshire.
The four local authorities in the county – including Halton Borough Council – and Cheshire police have obtained £481,000 from the Department For Communities And Local Government (DCLG).
Over the next two years the money will be used to recruit and train a team of specialist workers who can assess more complex cases and effectively support those who are experiencing multiple and challenging barriers.
It will provide suitable accommodation to victims in Runcorn and Widnes so they no longer have to live in fear in their own home.
The funds will also help to create a dedicated co-ordination function across the sub-region to provide direct access to a range of public sector data systems and professionals to offer additional advice and support on complex cases.
Services which will offer support include social care, the NHS, drug and alcohol, housing, mental health services, missing from home workers and CSE.
The funding is part of the Government’s commitment to protect those suffering from domestic abuse and ensure no victim is turned away from the support they need.
Halton Borough Council’s executive board member for community safety Cllr Dave Cargill said: “I am delighted to learn that Halton, with its partners across Cheshire, have been successful in securing much needed funds from the DCLG.
“This funding will be used in Halton to enhance local domestic abuse service provision, meaning we will be able to assist more people and reach out to victims with multiple needs.”
The function will also be used to build upon and expand a sub-regional network of existing specialist workers including Polish speaking independent domestic violence advisors, a Polish helpline and BME for specific faith based work and men’s workers.
Cheshire’s Chief Constable Simon Byrne and chair of the Domestic Abuse Strategic Board said: “Securing this funding is fantastic news and will go a long way in helping us support those who suffer greatly at the hands of their abusers.
“Domestic abuse has a huge impact on the lives of victims as well as their families and we work hard to ensure they are protected and kept safe from harm to enable them to move forward and begin a better life.”
Cheshire Police And Crime Commissioner David Keane added: “It is welcoming to see this vital service has been given the funding.
“One of the priorities in my police and crime plan is to focus on services which support victims of crimes and protecting the vulnerable.
“This latest initiative is another step in the right direction in being there for victims when they need it most and when they are at their most vulnerable.”