THAMES Valley’s Police and Crime Commissioner has sought continued funding for domestic abuse and sexual violence support.
PCC Matthew Barber has penned a letter to the Minister for Victims and Violence Against Women and Girls ahead of the projected ending of funding for independent sexual violence advisors (ISVAs) and independent domestic violence advisors (IDVAs).
The roles provide specialist support for victims of domestic abuse and sexual violence, but funding could come to an end in March next year, pending a final decision projected to be made in December.
In the letter, PCC Matthew Barber said: “I am writing to you about the Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence funding, including the ISVA/ IDVA funding streams, which are due to come to an end in March 2025.
“You have recently informed us that the Ministry of Justice will not confirm a future funding decision regarding whether this funding may be continued – either in full, or in part – or whether it will be discontinued entirely, until December.”
“As I am certain is the case in other areas, this funding is key in enabling the provision of vital specialist support to victims of crime in the Thames Valley.”
The letter continues to explain: “The funding is supporting many specialist roles, including Independent Sexual Violence Advisors (ISVAs) and Independent Domestic Violence Advisors (IDVAs) which are fundamental in helping victims navigate support and engage with the criminal justice process. It is delivering specialist services such as supporting victims of stalking and is reaching underrepresented groups who have experienced sexual violence or domestic abuse including older people, disabled victims, victims from ethnic minority groups and children and young people.
“From speaking to our services in the Thames Valley, the prolonged uncertainty around a decision on future funding is unfortunately already having an immeasurable impact with some services beginning to lose staff or having to close their doors to new referrals.
“The demand for specialist domestic abuse and sexual violence support is continuing to increase and is becoming even more critical. Should services begin to close, we will not be able to meet this level of demand through the core provision for victims commissioned by PCCs.
“I appreciate a decision on future funding will not be confirmed until December, however I urge you to consider the potential impact of any reduction in funding on victims and renew funding at the same or a higher level than in previous years. This will allow critical services to continue with their crucial and specialist work helping victims/survivors of crime cope and build resilience.”
