A DOMESTIC abuse charity has secured a share of £300,000 in funding from the Ministry of Justice.

Refuge, which helps to fund services for the victims of abuse in Warrington, is one of eight organisations from across the county to be awarded a grant from the MOJ through Cheshire police and crime commissioner David Keane.

This money will help them ‘meet additional costs incurred’ during the coronavirus pandemic, whether this is due to the charities having to adapt their services or to cope with an increase in demand.

Mr Keane said: “As a result of the coronavirus pandemic, we have seen an unprecedented demand on some of our most vital services – in particular domestic abuse services due to many survivors being trapped in their homes with their abusers during lockdown, creating an impossible situation with little means of escape.

“This funding will allow them to recoup some of the costs occurred by adapting their services during the pandemic, as well as giving them the opportunity to provide additional support to victims over the next few months.

“In cases where our local services were regrettably deemed ineligible for government funding, I have worked with partners to find alternative funding sources wherever possible.

“It is vital that victims of crime are not forgotten during this period, and I will continue to act as a voice for those people to ensure they get the support they need and deserve.”

Other groups who will receive a slice of the total £303,947 pot include the NSPCC, the Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Centre, Survive and Catch 22.