The Government has announced an additional £64 million for violence reduction units, supporting the existing 18 units and enabling two new ones to be established.
Cllr Mohan Iyengar, Vice-Chair of the LGA’s Safer and Stronger Communities Board, said: “Violence reduction units are a valuable resource that are helping to reduce serious violence and crime, so it is extremely positive to see they will be extended to new areas and benefit from multi-year funding settlements.
“This will allow councils and partners to enhance the development of locally focused preventative strategies, something which the LGA has previously called for.
“We’re also pleased to see the funding package will work in tandem with central and local efforts to tackle violence against women and girls.”
The Government recently published its Tackling Domestic Abuse Plan, which outlines its approach to tackling domestic abuse through prioritising prevention, supporting victims, pursuing perpetrators, and building a stronger system.
Cllr lyengar added: “We are pleased that this plan recognises the need for an equal focus on prevention and early intervention measures through perpetrator programmes alongside continued funding commitments for victim support services, including dedicated provisions for children experiencing domestic abuse – something which the LGA has previously called for.
“Councils play an integral role in tackling domestic abuse and supporting the provision of services for victims, and the commitment to multi-year funding will help ensure these services are fully embedded within communities. Clarity on when and to whom the funding will be available will enable it to be distributed quickly.”