Minister for Rough Sleeping and Housing, Kelly Tolhurst MP has announced that a further 25 charities will receive a share of £1 million boost as part of the Government’s £10 million emergency fund to support domestic abuse victims and their families during the pandemic.
This emergency funding will support those providers facing the most difficulties during the pandemic and help to provide over 1,500 new beds and re-open 344 bed-spaces. This is part of a wider £76 million package of Government support for the most vulnerable in society
The flagship Domestic Abuse Bill, currently before Parliament, places a new duty on councils to provide safe accommodation for victims and their children in England.
Projects receiving funding include- The London Black Women’s Project, that works to protect, promote and develop the rights and resources of BAME women and children affected by domestic abuse from across London, Salford Women’s Aid, which provides temporary accommodation to women and children fleeing domestic violence across the Greater Manchester area and Roshini Birmingham, that is working to protect BAME communities affected by domestic abuse including Forced Marriage and Honour Based Abuse, including through a 24 hour, multilingual help line. Set up in 1979, Roshni Birmingham is a leading provider supporting communities through their journey to safety, confidence and independence to live free from violence, abuse and fear.
Rakhee Thakrar, Patron of the charity on their website said, “Roshni is a well-established and experienced charity which has always been at the forefront of tackling issues affecting Black and Minority Ethnic Communities. It has given me a deeper understanding of the barriers that are faced reporting domestic abuse. Roshni has helped countless victims/survivors in their darkest hour and I am proud to be a Patron of this remarkable charity.”
Minister for Rough Sleeping and Housing Kelly Tolhurst MP yold Asian Voice, “Our £10 million Covid-19 Emergency Support Fund is providing the support needed so that services can meet additional pressures during the pandemic.
“We will continue to engage with the sector to ensure victims and their children can access support including ensuring that councils provide safe accommodation for those that need it.”
Beverly Williams, Chair of Amadudu said, “MHCLG funding has been vital during the pandemic. The funding has enabled women from Black and minority ethnic communities to receive a quality service and support during this difficult time.
“Our staff team has been able to continue to meet essential needs of women and children. We are very grateful for the funding we received.”
