A DOMESTIC abuse support service has received £38,000 extra funding from the Ministry of Justice plus a donation from Newton-le-Willows Rotary Club to help support victims during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Safe2Speak service, which is commissioned by St Helens Council, has remained fully operational throughout the Coronavirus crisis, providing support, advice and emergency accommodation for those needing to flee.

The service, which employs fully trained specialists, is available to all victims in the St Helens area, not just Torus tenants.

As the UK went into lockdown, reports of Domestic Abuse to Safe2Speak began to rise and it was clear that extra staff were needed to meet the increased demand for assistance.

Together with St Helens Council, Torus approached the Ministry of justice to secure the funding for a much-needed new member of staff.

The work of the Safe2Speak service was also recognised by Newton-le-Willows Rotary Club, who made a £250 donation to directly help victims who are forced move because of abuse.

President of Rotary Newton-le-Willows Len Rainford said: "We invited Torus to speak to the club about the rise in domestic abuse cases since the start of the Pandemic, which is a great concern. After hearing about the difference that Torus’ services make, we wanted to give a donation to help those moving out of the Group’s emergency accommodation into their next homes.”

Charlotte Stenhouse, Operations Manager Supported Housing and Domestic Abuse – Torus Support Network, said: "Staying home has been an important part of dealing with the current pandemic and preventing the spread of the virus, however home for some people isn’t safe. Urgent action has been required to continue to support and protect victims and prevent perpetrators from exploiting lockdown to increase abuse. Safe2Speak has adapted to new ways of working to ensure that we can continue to deliver our services to those who need it.

I’m extremely proud of the team and their continued efforts to support those at risk of domestic abuse and this additional funding will help us to continue to reach those in need. It is positive that the Government has prioritised those at risk of domestic abuse in this national health emergency by providing the funding to enable us to increase our resources. I’m delighted that local organisations have recognised the great work that we do, to enable us to offer further support for those who are ready to move on to their own accommodation.”

Throughout the crisis, Torus has been keeping our customers across our three heartlands informed on where they can access help and support if they are a victim or suspect someone is a victim of domestic abuse.

You can find out more about Safe2Speak at safe2speak.co.uk