Is England taking the VAWA model to domestic violence?
A new press release may seem great, but I think this is the wrong way to fix the domestic violence problem.
A new press release from a British charity may seem like a feel good story.
Women’s Aid is delighted to be working with the Home Office, member services and sector peers to help distribute an additional £2 million in funding to provide one-off payments to survivors of domestic abuse to help them flee, and stay fled, from abusers.
From 31st January 2024, survivors of domestic abuse who do not have the financial means to leave their abusers will be able to apply for a one-off payment of up to £500 via one of over 470 support services, for essential items such as groceries, nappies or support with new accommodation to help them and their children flee to safety.
For the first time, survivors can also apply for a further one-off payment of up to £2,500 to help secure a sustainable independent future, such as putting down a deposit for rental accommodation. This could play an important role in preventing homelessness and alleviate some of the financial pressures faced by survivors, providing stability and independence.
Domestic violence advocates are cheering it.
So, it must be a great step toward tackling the domestic violence problem.
Here’s where I disagree.
Keep reading with a 7-day free trial
Subscribe to Michael Volpe Investigates to keep reading this post and get 7 days of free access to the full post archives.