VICTIMS of domestic violence who need extra support will get more refuge places as part of a pilot scheme in Sandwell.

An extra five new refuge places will be available after the West Midlands has secured £639,000 from the government to help victims of domestic abuse across the region.

Councillor Preet Gill, Sandwell Council’s cabinet member for public health and protection, said: “We know domestic abuse has a devastating effect on people’s lives, and the cases we know about are only the tip of the iceberg.

“This boost will help us in Sandwell to add much-needed refuge accommodation for women and families with more complex needs.

“There is a big demand for refuge accommodation for domestic violence victims in Sandwell. It is particularly important to accommodate victims with complex needs locally to make sure there’s continuity in the support they are receiving locally from other services and professionals for issues such as substance misuse and mental health."

She added: “This project will also see us working more closely with other councils and organisations across the West Midlands. Regionally, we can pilot new ways of working and learn how best to support victims with more complex issues.”

Sara Ward, chief executive of Black Country Women’s Aid, said: “We have seen an increase in the number of victims presenting with more complex needs. We need to respond in a more co-ordinated way across our organisations to reduce victimisation and further exposure to violence and abuse.

“We must make sure there is safe, suitable accommodation with support from a range of professionals, for example mental health services and drug and alcohol services working closely with specialist domestic abuse support services.

“By working together locally and regionally, we can continue to improve links between organisations and make sure victims get the right help and support.”

The region’s successful bid aims to provide more refuge spaces for women and children, improve services for victims with particular needs and build on the cross-regional support available. The partnership working across the region will feed in to future planning and development, shaping improved services in the long-term.

There’s lots of support available in Sandwell – call Black Country Women’s Aid on 0121 552 6448 or the free 24-hour national helpline 0808 2000 247. Always call 999 in an emergency. For more advice, go to www.sandwell.gov.uk/domesticabuse.