WIREDGOV

The Minister for Local Government and Government Business, Lesley Griffiths AM, has announced £2.275m to secure the future of the All Wales Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence Helpline for the next five years. 

Following the introduction of the Gender-based Violence, Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence (Wales) Bill last week, the Minister agreed continued funding for the All Wales Helpline from 1 April 2015 to 31 March 2020.

When the helpline was launched in 2004, it was open for 8 hours a day.  A review in 2006 led to the services being extended to provide 24 hour coverage from January 2007.  The service later expanded to include support for victims of sexual violence. 

The helpline now runs 24hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year and offers high quality information and support to those experiencing domestic abuse and/or sexual violence and to those contacting the service on their behalf. 

Lesley Griffiths AM said:

"Gender-based violence, domestic abuse and sexual violence can leave victims feeling isolated and alone.

"The All Wales Domestic Abuse & Sexual Violence Helpline is there for everyone. It is there for those suffering at the hands of an abuser or whether they are calling on behalf of someone else. It is a service available any time of the day or night, offering information and support to whoever calls.

"The Gender-based Violence, Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence (Wales) Bill sets out, in law, the responsibilities of public sector services in supporting victims.

"This helpline is a practical embodiment of such support and with the Bill ensuring these issues are high on the agenda of both the people of Wales and our public services, I am very pleased to secure its future for the next five years."