Hundreds of domestic abuse victims will receive lifeline payments to help them escape tormenting and often life-threatening abuse, and to help rebuild their lives thanks to an additional £2 million investment, the Home Office has announced today. 

From 31 January, victims of domestic abuse who do not have the financial means to leave their abusers will be able to apply for a one-off payment of up to £500 via one of over 470 support services, for essential items such as groceries, nappies or support with new accommodation to help them and their children flee to safety.  Victims can also apply for a further one-off payment of up to £2,500.

Home Secretary, James Cleverly MP said:

“Tackling violence and abuse against women and girls is a priority of mine. We know that victims of domestic abuse are often forced to flee with very little. These payments cover essentials like food, clothing and nappies, and will also help them keep a roof over their heads.”

Rebecca Harris MP commented:

“Women and girls disproportionately experience domestic abuse and this new scheme will make a huge difference to people who are unable to afford essentials. All victims of domestic abuse will be able to benefit from this scheme and I know it will make a huge difference to people in finding safety.”

Minister for Victims and Safeguarding, Laura Farris MP said:

“I am proud this fund has helped over 600 people to escape their abusers and find safety and hope this additional £2 million will help hundreds more find peace and rebuild their lives.  I am also proud of, and grateful to, Women’s Aid, for the extraordinary service they provide to some of the most desperate women in society.”

Nicole Jacobs, Domestic Abuse Commissioner for England and Wales, said:

“I am delighted that the government is launching a Flexible Fund for 2024 following the success of last year’s scheme.”

All police forces across England and Wales are now following a new approach for the investigation of rape, funded by the Home Office, with police referrals to the Crown Prosecution Service for adult rape offences already up more than 200% since 2019.  Under the new model, police and prosecutors can access better support and 2,000 police investigators will be specially trained in sexual offences by April 2024. The government has also created new offences to criminalise acts such as non-fatal strangulation, stalking, cyberflashing and the sharing of intimate images without consent.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, you can contact;

• Essex Police at 101 (non-emergency) or 999 (emergency)
• Essex Compass, domestic abuse helpline at 0330 333 7 444
• Next Chapter, a support organisation for looking to rebuild their life after experiencing abuse at 0330 333 7 444
• Victim Support UK’s Essex helpline at 0808 17 81 694