LOCAL voluntary sector services who support domestic abuse and sexual violence victims are being urged to apply for a second round of emergency funding to help them continue supporting victims through the Coronavirus pandemic.

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Kim McGuinness, has announced that extra money is being made available to support organisations to help them cope with increased demand and ongoing financial pressures.

Almost £500,00 has been allocated by the Ministry of Justice to PCC McGuinness who, within a fortnight, will distribute it to charities and support organisations helping those most in need. The deadline for applications is June 2nd, 2020.

The funding can only be used by organisations providing direct support to domestic abuse and sexual violence victims, and is to cover additional costs incurred as a direct result of the outbreak.

Police and Crime Commissioner, Kim McGuinness, said: “The struggle and fear for those trapped at home with their abuser is very real. We know this pandemic is making it difficult for some to access support and is creating difficulties for those providing it too. That’s why we have to act fast and get the money out there. I’m conscious the deadline is tight and the process of applying for funding can put additional strain on services that are already stretched, so if anything is unclear don’t hesitate to get in touch with my office and we will help you as best we can.

“Whether you’re a small or large organisation and whatever support you’re providing – safe spaces, helplines, web chats – it’s all such important work right now to ensure victims don’t feel alone and that they can escape from the abuse.”

She added: “We absolutely have to prioritise those at risk of this horrible abuse and violence, but we can’t just draw the line there, there are many other victims who are getting caught up in this this health crisis who can’t get forgotten too. There are young people who are still being criminally exploited, old people being subjected to scams – we need to ensure specialist support reaches other vulnerable victims of crime and I will keep calling on the Government to help fund support in other areas too.”

For full details of the funding criteria and how to apply visit: http://www.northumbria-pcc.gov.uk/police-crime-plan/commissioning-services-grants/11591-2/

ENDS