VICTIMS of domestic violence and a scheme to help perpetrators change their ways are set to benefit from almost £1million of Government funding.

The Home Office has handed Essex County Council £450,000 to set up a service for people concerned about their own behaviour, while £500,000 has been awarded to a group of south Essex councils to provide refuge for those fleeing abuse.

The Southend, Essex and Thurrock Domestic Abuse Partnership will launch a “Perpetrator Pathway” service later this year.

People who have concerns about their behaviour, as well as family or friends who may also be worried, will be able to access support.

Chairman Dick Madden, said: “Any money we can put into driving down domestic abuse in the county is a welcome addition.

“This extra funding will enable us to create a clear route for perpetrators to get the right help which can help them to change their abusive behaviour.”

At the same time, a domestic abuse “hub” has been opened to provide more support to victims.

Basildon Council led the funding bid and obtained the cash from the Department for Communities and Local Government.

Cash will go towards maintaining 28 refuge spaces, as well as funding a domestic violence coordinator who will help to run the hubs.

Basildon Council’s partners in the bid included Rochford Council,Thurrock Council, Castle Point Council, Brentwood Council, and Essex Police.

Mike Webb, Rochford Council’s portfolio holder for the community, said: “This is yet another example of how working together with our partners is providing much needed services for the area.”

The South Essex Domestic Abuse Hub will involve staff from housing, Citizens’ Advice, Changing Pathways, and Essex Police.

A satellite unit has been set up at Rochford Council where a Citizens’ Advice adviser and domestic violence coordinator will be on hand to offer support and advice every other Monday afternoon and a second one is planned for Thurrock in September.

If you or someone you know is suffering from Domestic Abuse there is a Safer Places support line which is funded by the Police and Crime Commissioner for Essex. Call 03301 025811. This is for individuals who require safe accommodation or support over domestic abuse. In the event of an emergency always dial 999.