CUMBRIA Police and Crime Commissioner, Peter McCall welcomes an additional three-year funding boost of £261,028 per year, £783,084 overall.

The funding has been produced by the Ministry of Justice (MOJ), for victims of Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence in Cumbria.

This funding has been awarded to several organisations across the county that provide tailored support to female and/or male victims who have experienced domestic abuse, rape or sexual abuse at any point in their life.

Both adult and children's services will benefit from the funding, and it can be used to support existing clients, as well as new referrals.

Organisations receiving funding are Gateway4Women, Safety Net, The Birchall Trust, West Cumbria Domestic Violence (The Freedom Project) and Women’ Community Matters.

Peter McCall said: “I welcome this additional funding to further support people who have experienced domestic abuse, rape or sexual abuse in Cumbria.

“Sexual violence and domestic abuse are horrendous acts that no one should face, but thanks to our specialist support services, those who have been abused do not have to face it alone.

“I urge anyone that has experienced domestic abuse, rape or sexual abuse, recent or historical, to use these services, whether you have reported the crime to the Police or not.

“No one should feel that they are alone – please don’t suffer in silence. Help is out there."