Victims’ support services are set to receive nearly £14million to help the most vulnerable people in West Yorkshire.
For the very first time in England and Wales, the Ministry of Justice fund will secure vital services for the next three years.
Out of the £13.89million pot, money will also be put towards independent support roles for victims and witnesses, including crimes such as sexual violence and domestic violence.
Meanwhile a new West Yorkshire wide service is set to be established, specifically supporting victims of domestic abuse related stalking.
Stalking is defined as a pattern of behaviours that is fixated, obsessive, unwanted and repeated. Stalking is a crime.
— West Yorkshire Police (@WestYorksPolice) October 7, 2021
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Children and young people, disabled people, gypsy and traveller communities and men will be supported, as well as specific services in spaces like hospitals and sixth form colleges.
Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said: “We want to improve outcomes for victims and survivors of domestic and sexual abuse as well as embedding a trauma informed approach to ensure services are sensitive, empathetic and understand the impact of lived experience.”
Lesley McLean, area manager for West Yorkshire at Victim Support, said: “We are pleased to launch our brand new ISAC (Independent Stalking Advocate Caseworker) service.
“Given the increasing number of stalking reports in the area, it is more important than ever.”
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