Government cash will help develop domestic violence projects

More than �166,000 in Home Office cash is going to projects in Tyneside, Teesside and County Durham

The schemes were set up three years ago as temporary projects to research the best ways of cutting domestic violence, rape and sexual assault.

he extra funding will help them work with local agencies to develop their services, or to secure ongoing funding to develop their work. The Middlesbrough domestic violence forum will received �57,802, The Wave project in North Tyneside is to get �37,606 and the Durham & Darlington reducing violence workshop will get �70,604.

Home Office Minister Lord Falconer said: "The government is determined to support victims of domestic violence, rape and sexual assault, and strive to find what works in tackling this pernicious problem.

Security measures

"The findings from these projects may prove to be invaluable in determining what will really help women to report these crimes, complete a prosecution, how doctors can identify early signs of abuse and how the police could prevent repeat victimisation."

The Middlesbrough scheme helps women suffering from domestic violence by providing a range of security measures, and reduce the numbers of women suffering from repeat victimisation of domestic violence.

It also improves access to the criminal and civil justice systems and protects women who are in the process of separating from their partners.

The Wave project provides outreach support and advocacy for women affected by domestic violence, as well as group activities, training and information on the wide range of services available.

The Durham and Darlington scheme aims to provide an accurate picture of the nature and extent of domestic violence in County Durham.