Women in parts of Scotland who are experiencing domestic abuse will now have access to a new pilot fund called the Fund to Leave. This initiative aims to provide financial support to help women leave abusive relationships and rebuild their lives. The fund, totalling £500,000, will be administered by Women’s Aid groups in the five local authority areas with the highest number of women’s homelessness applications resulting from domestic abuse.
Statistics from 2022-23 reveal that nearly a quarter of all instances of homelessness among women and their children were directly linked to violent or abusive disputes within their households. Recognising the need to address this issue, First Minister Humza Yousaf emphasised the Scottish Government’s commitment to addressing homelessness and ending violence against women and girls.
Leaving an abusive partner is often a dangerous and challenging process, and financial dependence on the abuser can be a significant obstacle. The Fund to Leave aims to alleviate the financial burden by assisting with essential expenses such as rent and clothing for women and children. By doing so, it hopes to empower survivors to escape abusive situations and create safer environments for themselves.
Marsha Scott, the Chief Executive of Scottish Women’s Aid, expressed her satisfaction with the fund, highlighting that survivors have long identified financial independence as a crucial factor in extricating themselves from abusers. She emphasised that whether survivors choose to remain in their homes or seek alternative accommodations, financial struggles persist, making this fund a vital resource.
Kate McCormack, the Chief Executive of Fife Women’s Aid, praised the initiative as well, acknowledging that domestic abuse frequently leads to homelessness in Fife. She emphasised that financial insecurity often acts as a barrier for individuals seeking to escape abusive relationships, making the Fund to Leave a welcome and necessary intervention.
Grants from the Fund to Leave will be available as part of a pilot program until March 31, 2024. During this period, efforts will be made to distribute the funds efficiently and swiftly to those who require assistance.
