Funding secured to help domestic abuse victims

Dozens of women who have suffered domestic abuse across Ashfield are feeling safer and more protected thanks to a scheme which helps them stay in their own homes.

The Sanctuary Scheme works with abuse survivors who want to carry on living in at home, where it is their choice, where it is safe to do so and where the perpetrator no longer lives within the accommodation.

More than 50 women across the District have received help under the scheme, which installs security measures inside a survivor’s home to improve safety and prevent unauthorised access.

These include safe rooms, new locks, stronger doors, security lights, and portable police alarms.

Ashfield District Council has been successful in securing funding to pay for the programme and has now been awarded another £34,681 from the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (MHCLG).

Cllr John Wilmott, Ashfield’s Executive Lead for Community Safety and Crime Reduction, said:

“The Sanctuary Scheme has proved invaluable for many vulnerable survivors of domestic abuse across the District, helping them feel safer and more secure in their own homes.

“Domestic abuse and violence continues to affect far too many people, predominantly women and girls, and we remain determined to do whatever we can to help those who suffer.”

Tackling violence against women and girls is a priority for the Council as part of its aim to create a safer and stronger Ashfield for all. The District has two dedicated Domestic Abuse workers who have supported over 100 domestic abuse survivors over the past year.

The Council works in partnership with domestic abuse charities in the area who co-locate from Ashfield District Council’s offices in Kirkby-In-Ashfield, alongside Nottinghamshire Police and other agencies.

It is also White Ribbon accredited meaning the authority has high standards when it comes to responding to domestic abuse and are working towards achieving ‘Domestic Abuse Housing Alliance’ Accreditation.