Cumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Peter McCall successfully bid for £70,000 from the MOJ Critical Support Fund, who awarded £38,414 to Women’s Community Matters and £31,500 to West Cumbria Domestic Violence Support/The Freedom Project, to help victims of domestic abuse receive quicker access to vital support.

The MOJ’s Critical Support Fund was made available in June, as additional funding to support victims of domestic abuse and sexual violence, due to an increase in complexity and demand for services.

Peter McCall comments:” Providing high-quality services for victims in Cumbria is one of my top priorities and timely access to specialist support for people that have experienced domestic abuse is vital.

“Our successful funding bid to the MOJ’s Critical Support Fund will make a big difference in helping to reduce waiting times.

“The fund will enable Women’s Community Matters and West Cumbria Domestic Violence Support’s Freedom Project to be better equipped with meeting increased demand and reduce waiting list times, so that victims can receive support quicker.”

Rebecca Robson, Senior Officer at Women’s Community Matters comments: “This additional funding has come at a key time for us as a service.  We supported 908 victims and survivors of domestic abuse last year and the current numbers already suggest this year will see an even greater need for support.

“We are very grateful to Peter and his team who have secured this funding for Cumbria and who have offered their help and support throughout the pandemic.  This funding has enabled us to have additional staff in post so we can respond to people when they need it most. “

Vicky Pike, West Cumbria Domestic Violence Support / The Freedom Project comments: “We have recently received a huge increase in demand for our service for female and male survivors/victims, as well as children and young people.

“The funding received from the MOJ’s Critical Support Fund will allow us to increase our professional counselling hours and facilitate an additional women’s support group, providing support to those currently waiting for the help they desperately need.”

Dan StQuintin, Detective Superintendent Cumbria Constabulary, said: “I welcome the funding that has been allocated to support the needs of victims of abuse in Cumbria. Accessing the correct specialist support quickly is crucial in supporting a person at such a difficult time.

“We have some great organisations in Cumbria that support victims of domestic abuse and their families. This funding will further enhance this really important work. Supporting victims and working effectively with trusted support agencies is a key priority for the Constabulary.”