Katie Kempen, Chief Executive at Victim Support said:

“Programmes that tackle the harmful behaviour of men who abuse women have a major role to play in addressing the epidemic of violence against women and girls. We have long advocated for a robust approach to tackling the root causes of gender-based violence. However, they can only work when delivered alongside vital support for victim-survivors, which is why it’s deeply worrying that this huge investment hasn’t been matched with funding for victims’ services. This decision to channel funding into perpetrator programmes comes as funding for vital victims’ services has been cut – meaning women simply can’t access the help they need. With the criminal justice system in crisis and court delays at record levels, victims’ services are a life-line – now more than ever.

“This investment in perpetrator programmes must go hand in hand with sustained long-term funding for services that support women and girls. Victim-survivors deserve nothing less.”