Warwickshire groups providing domestic abuse or sexual violence support services can bid for emergency funding - here's how

The Ministry of Justice has allocated £192,000 to the county to help meet the additional costs registered charities or social enterprises have incurred or will incur while adapting their services during the pandemic, and to cope with demand increases resulting from it.

While cases in Warwickshire have not increased since the lockdown began, it is expected that more victims of domestic abuse and sexual violence will come forward as restrictions on movement are eased.

Mr Seccombe said: “I already provide grant funding to a wide range of organisations alongside the support services I directly commission or co-commission but I know that this pandemic has thrown up extraordinary challenges to organisations working with victims.

“Some have lost sources of funding as a result and all have had to meet the unexpected expense of changing the way they deliver their services at short notice. That’s why this additional Ministry of Justice funding is very welcome.

“It is vitally important that services providing support to victims of domestic abuse and sexual violence in Warwickshire can continue their work, as it is widely anticipated that this lockdown period will result in an eventual increase in the number of people that need their support.

“My office is in the process of contacting the organisations we already work with to make them aware of the funding opportunities but there may be others out there who could benefit that we simply don’t know about. Applications can come from organisations of any size, including small specialist organisations that support particular groups such as BAME, disabled or LGBT victims.

“I’d urge any organisation looking to make a bid to get in touch with my office without delay, as the deadline for applications is June 1.”

For full details of the funding criteria and how to apply contact Chris Lewis, the PCC’s development and policy lead for victims at [email protected] or by calling on 07971 602631.