Extra funding of over £600,000 will be used to support for victims of domestic and sexual abuse in the Dyfed-Powys area.

The money will be used to provide specialist independent support for a wide range of community based support organisations.

It follows an increase in the demand for support during the pandemic, and the response to the recent Sarah Everard tragedy.

Police and Crime Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn says that nine additional roles will be created as a result of the funding.

Specialist training for local professionals will also be provided, with the aim of building capacity within domestic abuse refuges.

Schools and pupil referral units will also enable children to access early interventions by adults they trust in a safe space.

Mr Llywelyn said; “I’m pleased to announce that we have recently managed to secure this additional funding from the MOJ.

"Service providers have experienced a significant increase in the number of people that need access to specialist support services unfortunately.

“This additional funding will have a direct impact on the services available, and will ensure that victims receive the required support to help them recover and lead to a future without abuse.

“I would like to thank all our service providers here in the Dyfed-Powys area for their hard work and the crucial support they provide to those who are most in need.”

“I encourage anyone who find themselves in an abusive situation or relationship to report it to the Police on 101 or 999 in emergency..”

The total additional funds that have been secured for 2021/22 is £629,093 with an additional £300,000 commitment secured so far for 2022/23.

This brings the total investment in victim services to over £1.7million during 2021/22, combining Ministry of Justice and PCC core funding.

Hafan Cymru is one of the service providers in Dyfed-Powys that will benefit from the funding.

Necia Lewis, Director of Operations for the organisation said: “The additional funding has been invaluable in supporting the IDVA service across Dyfed Powys.

“It has allowed us to support the escalating number of victims accessing the services, enabling us to provide specialist workers, such as Male specific workers across the region.

"We have increased our staff training to make sure that we have further skills and relevant knowledge to robustly support the needs of our clients."

Mike Wilkinson, Deputy Chief Executive at New Pathways, who provide specialist services for victims of sexual violence , said “We are delighted to receive this funding.

"It will provide much needed additional support for people affected by rape and sexual abuse in Dyfed-Powys.

“Our services are there to support anyone affected by rape or sexual abuse, regardless of how long ago it happened.

"I would urge people to contact New Pathways in confidence to see how we can help.”