Milton Keynes Council will receive £535,189 in funding to provide additional support for victims of domestic abuse and their children.
The extra funding, awarded by the Government, will help victims and their children access life-saving support in safe accommodation, including advocacy, counselling, and therapy in safe locations such as refuges or specialist safe accommodation, where victims and their children can go to get away from their abusers.
In total, local authorities across England will receive £125 million.
Milton Keynes Council will be required to provide support to domestic abuse victims and their children within safe accommodation services, where needs have been identified.
It will come into force in April 2021 with the passage of the landmark Domestic Abuse Bill, with funding announced in advance so local authorities know how much they will receive for these vital services and can begin to plan.
Both of Milton Keynes' MPs have welcomed the funding.
Iain Stewart, MP for Milton Keynes South, said: “Domestic abuse is a devastating crime that ruins lives, which is why this Conservative Government’s commitment to empowering and protecting victims is so important.
“The £535k announced today for Milton Keynes will ensure that anyone who needs to access safe accommodation and the support services they need to recover and rebuild their lives will be able to do so, and is part of a wider package of support this Government has put in place for victims of rape and domestic abuse."
Ben Everitt, MP for Milton Keynes North, added: "Domestic abuse is a scourge on society and it’s welcome news the Government are providing further funding to Milton Keynes Council to support victims and their children.
“At a time when people have been forced to stay at home it’s vital this support is in place to help victims into safe accommodation.”
