Council affirms commitment to tackling domestic abuse

This fund will allow domestic abuse survivors, who do not have the financial means to leave their abusers, to apply for a one-off payment of up to £500 for essential items such as groceries, nappies or support with new accommodation to help them and their children flee to safety.     

For the first time, survivors will also be able to apply for a further one-off payment of up to £2,500 to help secure a sustainable independent future, such as putting down a deposit for rental accommodation. 

This funding is delivered through referrals of services that have a specialist understanding of domestic abuse.

Councillor Peter Diplock, Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning, said: "I really welcome this funding which could be the lifeline that many domestic abuse survivors need to take their first steps to leave abusers, find a place of safety and start anew. This is recognition that survivors often have to leave home with very little money or possessions and need support with essential items."

This council recently published a corporate statement setting out its stance on all potential domestic abuse risks related to its work and the steps it has put in place to help ensure the best possible outcomes for survivors. The statement, and further information on the council's work to stop domestic abuse, can be viewed at www.lewes-eastbourne.gov.uk/DASupport

Councillor Diplock added: "We are committed to tackling domestic abuse and this statement outlines the measures we are taking to combat this appalling crime, including a dedicated domestic abuse policy for Homes First that provides a framework for the support we offer."

For more information on referrals for Women's Aid funding visit www.changegrowlive.org/domestic-abuse-service-east-sussex/info

Published on February 13, 2024.

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