Government confirms abuse funding

THE Welsh Government has confirmed funding for specialist services supporting survivors of domestic violence and abuse during the coronavirus pandemic.

Crisis situations can result in an increase in incidents of domestic violence and the home may not always be a place of safety.

People could be at a higher risk of abuse, violence and psychological torment while they are self-isolating and while the stay-at-home rules are in place to reduce the virus from spreading. It may also be more difficult for victims to escape or seek support.

Deputy Minister and Chief Whip Jane Hutt has also urged people in Wales to look out for each other to support those who may be at risk of domestic violence.

In December, the Welsh Government announced funding to tackle violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence – £1.2m was dedicated to helping Welsh Women’s Aid and regional domestic abuse services to keep survivors safe, and to provide for needs which can’t be met by refuges.

The Welsh Government is allocating £200,000 to help provide refuges and support services with beds and mattresses to ensure there are sufficient beds for survivors in refuges.

Along with White goods to ensure there is no risk of crosscontamination if there are consequences from having to isolate due to the virus.

Indoor and outdoor play equipment is also being supplied to mitigate the issue of school closures and social distancing, which is preventing access to external playgrounds

IT equipment is being made avaiable for children, young people and adults who have to study at home during isolation, or to enable staff to keep in touch with victims and survivors.

Anyone suffering or anyone knowing someone experiencing physical or emotional abuse at the hands of a partner, there are a number of ways to get help.

The Live Fear Free helpline is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and can be called free on 0808 8010 800.

There is also a number to text: 0786 007 7333 or email info@ livefearfreehelpline.wales.

In addition there is webchat available by visiting: https://gov. wales/live-fear-free/contact-livefear-free.

Anyone who finds that they cannot talk in safety, but need help immediately, police forces across Wales will respond to a silent 999 call, dial 999 followed by 55 to indicate that you can’t talk, but need help.