A new fund for those affected by violence against women and girls has supported 193 survivors across North Ayrshire in its first six months.
The Delivering Equally Safe (DES) fund provided £9.5 million to 121 projects across Scotland – including North Ayrshire Women’s Aid - in its first six months.
These projects give one-to-one emotional and practical support, as well as refuge, legal or financial advice and other services. Many of the organisations also run training and outreach programmes aiming to prevent violence against women and girls.
Kenneth Gibson MSP said:
“It is good to see that the projects supported through Delivering Equally Safe have offered a lifeline to at last 193 survivors of violence and abuse across North Ayrshire.
“Tackling violence against women and girls is a core priority for the SNP Government, and this fund is a key element ensuring innovative projects can support survivors and tackle the root causes of violence and abuse.
“If you believe you are being subjected to domestic abuse, please reach out as help is there for you.”
Specialist and confidential support for women, men and children is available from local organisations including:
North Ayrshire Women's Aid - 01294 602424
Break the Silence (support for rape/sexual abuse) - 01563 559558
Social Services - 01294 310300 (Out of Hours) 0800 328 7758
If at immediate risk, please phone 999. For further information and advice visit North Ayrshire’s Health and Social Care Partnership website. A report on the first six months of the Delivering Equally Safe Fund has been published by Inspiring Scotland, which manages the fund on behalf of the SNP Government. It can be read here. The fund supports the work of the Equally Safe Strategy, which underpins Scotland’s approach to preventing and eradicating violence against women and girls. ENDS
