Even more support will soon be available to victims and survivors of sexual violence and domestic violence in Gloucestershire.

The Ministry of Justice has confirmed that Gloucestershire will receive £119,009 in total, with £70,763 secured to support domestic abuse and £48,246 for sexual violence projects in Gloucestershire.

This is thanks to a successful funding bid by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Gloucestershire (OPCC).

This funding is in addition to £598,950 of investment announced earlier in May 2021.

As part of the process, the team carried out needs assessments for each of Gloucestershire's relevant support services. The process has secured funding for Gloucestershire Domestic Abuse Support Service (GDASS); Gloucestershire Counselling Service (GCS); Gloucestershire Rape and Sexual Assault Centre (GRASAC); Nelson Trust; Teens in Crisis; West Mercia Women's Aid (which runs Street Gloucestershire); and Restorative Gloucestershire.

Kirsten Fruin, OPCC commissioning manager, said: "We're delighted to have secured further funding to support domestic abuse and sexual violence support in Gloucestershire. 2020 was a tough year for many families who were not safe at home, so this additional support is incredibly important.

"I'm glad the Ministry of Justice recognised the county's need. This money will fund a range of services for both adults and young people, including those with complex needs."

Full details of the funding and how it will be allocated are listed below:

• GDASS (group work provision) £23,163.00
• Gloucestershire Counselling Service (counselling adults) £15,900.00
• GRASAC (support for specialist support workers/education and training) £24,626.00
• Nelson Trust (part-time worker - supporting women facing multiple, complex needs who need holistic support) £10,000.00
• Teens in Crisis (counselling young people 13 - 19 years) £24,570.00
• WMWA Street (Support worker for young people) £18,850.00Restorative Gloucestershire (training for SV complex needs) £1,900.00

Gloucestershire's new Police and Crime Commissioner, Chris Nelson, said: "I can't begin to imagine how frightening the last year was for people who didn't feel safe at home. While cases involving domestic abuse and sexual violence are often under-reported, I want to ensure support is available for people when they do feel ready to report their experiences.

"I'm pleased my office has been able to secure this government funding for seven worthwhile organisations in the county. I'm sure their important work will make a real difference to the lives of victims and survivors in Gloucestershire."