Chippenham MP Michelle Donelan has called for greater Government support for victims of domestic violence in Wiltshire.

In July, the Government announced a £3m fund to support the victims of domestic abuse to address any gaps in the provision of specialist accommodation-based support and provide support for victims seeking to access these services.

The Summer Budget 2015 also announced a review of the full range of services currently available to victims of domestic abuse.

Its findings will feed into the Autumn Spending Review and an updated violence against women and girls strategy to ensure that victims of domestic violence and their families have access to the support and services they need to keep safe.

Michelle Donelan said: “As a trustee of a Chippenham charity - Helping Victims of Domestic Violence - I know how important this is and what a devastating and stressful time it is for victims who have often suffered months or years of abuse.”

“The Government has taken some good steps but I think there is still more that we can do to ensure that adult and child victims are afforded the safety and security they need, when they need it.”

Communities Secretary Greg Clarks’ responded to Miss Donelan’s question by stating that the point of the additional funding was for local authorities to work with voluntary groups and charities.

Communities Minister, Baroness Susan Williams, has been meeting with victims and those working in the sector.

She said: “Domestic violence and abuse is a devastating crime that shatters the lives of victims and families and this government is committed to ensuring that we have a strong safety net for anyone who finds themselves in a situation where they are forced to leave their home.

“We recognise that not all victims will have the same needs and the fund will also be looking to support further innovative approaches to enable victims to access the support they need.”

Chippenham-based charity, Helping Victims of Domestic Violence, launched their 2015 Christmas Appeal earlier in November and the deadline for shoe box donations is December 4.

For more information visit www.hvdv.webs.com and click on ‘2015 Christmas Appeal’.