More housing to keep domestic abuse victims safe to be offered in Hampshire

Portsmouth City Council and Hampshire County Council have been awarded cash to provide life-saving support for families affected by violence including safe accommodation such as refuges, as well as therapy.

The funds, which have been split as £500,000 to Portsmouth and £2.3m to Hampshire, come as Hampshire police reported a rise the crime during the pandemic.

Portsmouth council said it would 'consider more accommodation options' due to the money.

Councillor Lee Hunt, the council's community safety boss, said: 'In Portsmouth we are tackling the scourge of violent crime and we know that domestic abuse continues to be the most common known driver of assaults; we have also seen assaults between family members increasing.

'Early intervention is key - so working with people in unhealthy relationships for example involving drugs and alcohol to prevent abuse will see people living happier lives and in turn save lives and reduce violence.

'Domestic abuse is not only a police matter - everyone must work together to drive this awful crime out of our communities.

'With this money we will work with all our partners to give more help to victims of domestic abuse and try to stop it happening in the first place.'

Nationally the government has awarded a total of £125m to local councils as part of new statutory obligations to support victims of domestic abuse that will come into play later this year.

SEE ALSO: Fears over increase in domestic abuse cases

Hampshire council's public health lead, Cllr Judith Grajewski, added: 'Domestic abuse is a hidden crime, never more so than during a pandemic, and we have been making every effort to reach out to vulnerable families to encourage them to seek the help that is available.

'We welcome this additional funding, which means we can continue to provide safe and supported accommodation to victims of domestic abuse, and combine practical help with easy-to-access essential support services where needed.

'If you suspect someone you know is suffering from domestic abuse – please call Hampshire domestic abuse advice line on 03300 165 112.'

Councils’ duties to support victims of domestic abuse will come into effect subject to the Domestic Abuse Bill becoming law. 

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