A HUGE £2m cash boost has been revealed to help survivors leave abusive relationships.
Chancellor Jeremy Hunt revealed the major cash injection to help tackle domestic abuse at today's Autumn Statement - in a victory for The Sun.
So far the funding has helped 626 survivors who used the emergency cash to buy food, nappies or even put it towards rent as they looked for a new place to live.
They have previously been able to apply for up to £500 in cash or voucher payments which are administered through the Women’s Aid charity.
Ministers are currently finalising plans on how to administer the new funding through specialist domestic abuse services.
Date millions on Universal Credit and benefits will get a pay rise this year
The fund was first set up in March this year following our Give Me Shelter campaign.
In his Autumn Statement Jeremy Hunt announced:
- The biggest ever price hike for tobacco products
- A major win for The Sun's Save Our Sups campaign with alcohol duty frozen
- A major benefit change for renters on Universal Credit
- A £10,000 energy bill discount for Brits living near pylons
- A £350 income boost for self-employed workers
- A £470 payment boost for millions on Universal Credit
- Millions will be stripped of benefits under harsh new rules
- Nurses will save £500 in a personal income tax cut
- No fuel duty hike in huge relief for drivers
Spice Girl Mel B has claimed the cash can be a “difference between life and death”.
The Sun has campaigned for 20 years on behalf of domestic abuse survivors from campaigns such as Save Our Shelters and Give Us Shelter.
Thousands of people across England and Wales are set to benefit.
He is also expected to announce £10 million of new funding to help improve support for survivors in the workplace.
The money will be given to charitable organisations who work with employers to raise awareness of the issues. Staff are also trained on how to identify any incidents concerning colleagues.
Figures show that 2.4million adults over the age of 16 are understood to experience some kind of domestic abuse each year.
Surveys show between 36 per cent and 75 per cent of survivors are harassed while at work.
A new interactive tool is also expected to be launched by the end of the year on HMRC spotting those suffering from domestic economic abuse.
A Treasury source said: “No one should suffer at the hands of their partner, and it’s only right we make sure there is support out there to help survivors through such a difficult time.”
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Kate Osiadacz, Head of Responsible Business, TSB, said: “Having
offered our Emergency Flee Fund to TSB customers for almost a year, we know first-hand the important role these funds play in helping victims of domestic abuse escape a dangerous situation.
“So today’s announcement from the government is hugely welcome, and will ensure even more victims can access money when they need it the most.”
