Havering is to receive more than £70,000 to tackle domestic abuse, as the government announces millions will go towards supporting victims across the UK. 

However, a council spokesperson warned that while the additional money is “welcome”, more is required to tackle domestic abuse in the community. 

The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) announced earlier this week that £257 million would be split between councils across England to support spaces such as refuges and shelters. 

To be allocated over two years (2023/24 and 2024/25), the department estimates 70,000 victims will benefit from the services the funding is designed to support. 

Housing and homelessness minister Felicity Buchan said: “Domestic abuse is a devastating crime, and this funding will help victims and their children across the country who need to escape from danger to recover and rebuild their lives in safe housing. 

“Whether it’s counselling, advice on how to handle finances or help finding a new home –  councils can use this money to make a real difference on the ground, giving victims the help and support they need.” 

A spokesperson for Havering Council described the announcement as "welcome news", but added: "Once the funding has been split between the local authorities, it won’t go very far in supporting the rising challenges of domestic abuse in our community.” 

According to government data, Havering is due to receive £37,004 in 2023/24 and £37,701 in 2024/25. 

The council’s spokesperson said the money will go towards recruiting a domestic abuse caseworker, “who will continue our work in relocating victims fleeing their perpetrators”. 

The 2019 to 2020 crime survey estimated 2.3 million people experienced domestic abuse in the previous year, with government describing it as “the most prevalent form of violence against women and girls”. 

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Services offered to domestic abuse victims in Havering include Havering Women’s Aid, which provides a range of other support such as counselling services, advocacy and group work.

It also provides a service called MENDAS, which supports male victims and survivors. 

Crisis support is provided by the Independent Domestic Violence Advocate service for high-risk victims and survivors. 

A dedicated council community safety officer leads on violence against women and girls.

There are also two male perpetrators groups, hosted by the council; Men and Masculinities, and Restart, which trains social workers and offers one-to-one support for male perpetrators.