New funding to help survivors of domestic abuse and sexual violence in Leicestershire

New funding to step up help for the survivors of domestic abuse and sexual violence in Leicestershire is being welcomed by the county’s top civilian policeman.

Providers are being invited to apply for a slice of a £4.2 million pot from the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) to increase support for current and new victims and survivors.

The cash includes £2.8 million from the Critical Support Fund.

Some £1.5 million will be ploughed into community-based support services for victims of sexual violence and domestic abuse.

A further £1.4 million is available for male rape support services from the Male Rape Support Service Fund.

Rupert Matthews, Leicestershire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, is now urging providers to submit applications to help him deliver specialist help quickly to victims and survivors.

Interested parties are urged to submit their applications to the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner by close of play on Wednesday June 23.

“When I became PCC, I promised to do more to protect the most vulnerable people in our communities, especially victims of abuse and violence who have suffered physically or psychologically – or both – and are in greatest need of our support.

“I will make sure the police protect victims and survivors now.

“But I am also determined to do all I can to prevent vulnerable people from being exploited or abused in the future by commissioning the right services and support that meets their recovery needs,” said Mr Matthews, who lives in Kibworth Beauchamp.

“Our community partners already do a fantastic job in difficult and challenging circumstances but there is scope to deliver so much more. “Demand for support has spiralled during the pandemic and it is critical we are there when called upon.

“Extra funding will ensure providers across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland are not only better equipped to meet demand but have the resources they need to deliver a high-quality service to survivors.”

To find out more about eligibility criteria, visit the website here: pcc.police.uk