Since being elected, Theo Clarke MP for Stafford has campaigned tirelessly across Staffordshire and in Parliament to tackle domestic abuse. Ms Clarke therefore welcomes that Staffordshire is set to receive £1,558,673 of Government funding to provide vital support services for domestic abuse victims, helping victims recover and rebuild their lives. The Government is providing £125 million to councils across England to make sure that safe accommodation spaces, such as refuges and shelters, can provide victims with vital support services including healthcare, social workers and benefits. Interpreters, immigration advice, drug or alcohol support and other specialist services will also be funded and made available so that anyone who flees their home gets the help they need.
Having recently held an event in Parliament to encourage Parliamentarians to go further to support domestic abuse survivors. Ms Clarke also welcomes that the Government has announced that it will consult on current housing rules, with the aim of giving victims more choice on where they rebuild their lives. By removing Local Connection Tests for abuse victims, this could help victims apply to social housing outside their local area, escaping the community their abuser lives in. Ms Clarke will continue to stand up for survivors of domestic abuse both locally and in Parliament.