Funding boost to support victims of domestic abuse

Woman speaking to a female councilor

We are set to receive funding that will ensure victims of domestic abuse have further access to life changing support.

What will the funding provide? 

The funding will provide additional support to help victims and their children rebuild their lives in a safe environment.

Therapeutic support services for children and increased support for victims with complex needs are ways the funding will be used. As well as, supporting victims on a long-term basis to help them thrive.

Cllr Carole Pattison, Cabinet Member for Learning, Aspiration and Communities, said:

“This funding is extremely welcome. It means we can continue to provide and enhance the vital support that victims of domestic abuse require.

“Domestic abuse in its many forms is such a terrible crime. It not only impacts the immediate victims but also their children and their families. Our offer is one which provides support for the victim and their children to make sure they are safe, supported and can begin to re-build their lives.

“If you, or someone you know, suffers from domestic abuse then please reach out, support is available.”

Do you need to access support? 

Victims of domestic abuse in Kirklees can access support by contacting Pennine Domestic Abuse Partnership.

Rebecca Hirst, Chief Executive of Pennine Domestic Abuse Partnership, said:

“Pennine Domestic Abuse Partnership welcomes this much-needed funding. The funding will enhance and build on current specialist domestic abuse support services in Kirklees.

“Historic underfunding over the years has led to gaps in vital services to safely support families through their journey of recovery from the trauma of living with domestic abuse. This funding will allow us to fill the gaps in the provision of support for victims and their children. The funding will also alow us further develop services to meet the needs of families in Kirklees.

“In 2021, for the first time, children were recognised as victims of domestic abuse in their own right through the new Domestic Abuse Act.  We are really pleased to be working with Kirklees. As well as, working alongside Northorpe Hall and WomenCentre too on a new early intervention, prevention and therapeutic service. The therapeutic service is specifically designed to support children and young people to recover from the impact of abuse.

“Being a victim of abuse often means having every aspect of life being controlled. It is crucial that victims and their children are given the support they need to take back control to transition into safe and settled lives.

“Domestic abuse has severe and long-lasting impacts on the mental health and wellbeing of victims and their children – who are also faced with huge barriers to accessing the support they need. This funding will strengthen the provision of support we can provide for victims of domestic abuse. It will also help us ensure that all victims who need support can access it at the time and in the way they need it.”