Cumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Peter McCall has secured £189,000 of funding from the Ministry of Justice to provide vital additional support for victims of domestic abuse and sexual violence during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Mr McCall said: “I am really pleased to be able to secure this additional funding for victims of domestic abuse and sexual violence.

“This Ministry of Justice grant is part of a wider £76m funding package recently announced by the Government. It will enable victims and survivors of domestic abuse, sexual violence, vulnerable children and their families to access support during this difficult time.

“Sadly, in Cumbria, we have seen domestic abuse increase since the beginning of lockdown in March. This funding comes at a time when there is no doubt that Covid-19 has increased the risk and vulnerability of victims."

The following eight organisations have been allocated a share of the extra funding: Victim Support, The Birchall Trust, Safety Net, The Well, Springfield, Women’s Community Matters, Women Out West and West Cumbria Domestic Violence Support Group.