MSP welcomes funding to support domestic abuse victims
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Aberdeenshire East MSP Gillian Martin has welcomed funding to help support women and children experiencing risk of violence and domestic abuse amid the coronavirus pandemic.
A total of £4.25million additional funding will be given for charities and projects, including in the north-east.
The additional investment will help respond to an increase in demand from victims of abuse for support services.
It will mean more staff, increased hours for centres and helplines, improvements to IT and new digital resources and training.
Updated guidance, developed in partnership with COSLA, is also already being used by local authorities to keep women and children safe.
In the north-east, Grampian Women’s Aid has been awarded £85,000 and Aberdeen Cyrenians has been given more than £32,000.
Commenting, Gillian Martin said: “The COVID-19 pandemic has drawn awareness of the greater risk faced by women and children from domestic abuse.
“We know referrals have increased during the pandemic – a concern I have highlighted in parliament on a number of occasions.
“I am pleased extra funding has been awarded to charities in the north-east which will help to ensure vital services are still provided to those who need it most.
“Any kind of violence is unacceptable and the wellbeing needs of women and children must be protected.”
