Calls to axe letter charges for domestic abuse victims

A Sunderland domestic violence campaigner has backed calls for Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt to stop GPs charging for letters needed by victims.

Recent changes in the law mean victims have to apply for legalaid,buttoqualifytheyneed to provide specific evidence to prove they have been abused.

One accepted form of evidence is a letter from a GP – but some have been charging to provide them.

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner Vera Baird QC has joined colleagues nationwide in urging Jeremy Hunt to scrap the fees.

“This fee must be abolished – it’s as simple as that,” she said.

“I’m completely committed to ensuring victims of domestic abuse have the support they need and find it appalling they must pay to prove they have been a victim to be eligible for legal aid.

“It is often the case that victims flee with very few personal belongings and many have limited access to funds. Without legal aid some victims simply cannot afford court proceedings against their perpetrator. It’s vital that nothing stands in the way of justice for these victims.”

Her call was echoed by Wearside Women in Need boss Clare Phillipson.

“We have not come across it locally, but that doesn’t mean it is not happening,” she said.

“I have certainly not heard any reports of it, but we have seen other people complaining about having to pay for letters. We know that GPs can charge for certain things but we don’t think this should apply to domestic violence victims.

“We are totally behind Vera’s call. People have got to get letters from GPs in aid to access legal aid but we don’t think a charge should be made for getting something that could protect you from being murdered.”