Sanctuary scheme's funding boost

A multi-agency scheme set up to support victims of domestic violence in the Cotswolds has been given a £12,000 funding boost.

Sanctuary is aimed at people who feel vulnerable or threatened by an ex-partner or family member.

It provides extra security measures for the home helping people feel safer.

It received £10,000 from the Department for Communities and Local Government and a further £2,000 from the Cotswold Crime and Disorder Partnership.

The scheme makes it possible for people affected by domestic abuse to remain in their own home rather than be relocated to other areas away from family networks, jobs and schools.

It was set up in 2007 and to date has helped 14 households stay secure.

Councillor Sir Edward Horsfall said: "This is a scheme that we have pioneered. It has since been developed across the Cotswolds and it has proved to be extremely successful."