Extra cash awarded to tackle domestic abuse in South Yorkshire

Over £232,000 has been awarded following a successful bid by South Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner, Dr Alan Billings.

The funding will be used to support a range of innovative programmes which aim to prevent domestic abuse before it happens by educating potential offenders and supporting potential victims.

It comes as charities have reported a sharp increase in demand during the coronavirus pandemic, including a 46 per cent rise in calls nationally, with some victims feeling at greater risk of harm or deciding to report abuse for the first time.

Dr Billings said: “We are pleased to have access to this funding at a time when the police and the organisations we support predict that domestic abuse is likely to increase further during these unprecedented times.

“The increase in domestic abuse since the Covid-19 crisis and lockdown has been exponential, and the organisations who try to prevent abuse and support victims need our help more than ever.

“I am particularly pleased to support the re-launch of the #YouAreNotAlone campaign. It is a key message for anyone suffering in silence.

“This money will go some way to helping those organisations struggling under the strain of this influx of new cases. I have no doubt that it will help prevent some people trapped in their homes from being subject to physical, sexual or emotional abuse.”

Call South Yorkshire Police on 101.

The National Domestic Abuse Helpline can be reached on 0808 2000247.