More than £750K to help Hampshire abuse victims

The award will fund an extra 19 specially trained staff to support the most vulnerable victims in the county, including children and young people.

The cash will pay for ten independent domestic abuse advocates (IDVAs) who ensure domestic abuse victims, survivors and their children get the best possible support and that there are appropriate safety plans in place.

The additional IDVAs will join those already working in Hampshire at Stop Domestic Abuse and in Southampton at Southampton City Council.

The bid was put together by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner with a potential further £729,654 being awarded in 2022/23.

Police and Crime Commissioner, Donna Jones, said: “Whether recent or historical abuse, it is important that victims of domestic abuse, rape and sexual assault feel listened to and receive practical, non-judgmental and compassionate support.

“This funding will add much needed capacity to the ISVA and IDVA services and make a real difference to the lives of victims and survivors of domestic abuse and sexual violence.”

The funding will also cover nine independent sexual violence advisors (ISVAs) who will be joining teams at Hampton Trust, Yellow Door and PARCs.

ISVAs provide practical and emotional advice and support to those who have experienced rape, sexual abuse or sexual violence or sexual exploitation. This includes supporting individuals through the Criminal Justice process.

Quality and operations director, Tonia Redvers, from the YOU Trust said “This funding is vital to add capacity to our team to support victims and survivors of domestic abuse and sexual

violence.

“We work across Hampshire and have seen referrals to our teams, both domestic abuse and sexual violence, increase due to the pandemic and higher incidents of violence and abuse.

“We were thrilled to be successful in our bid and, together with our partners we really do make a meaningful difference for the people in our communities.”