Groups tackling violence against women share £2.4m additional funding

More than 100 organisations which tackle violence against women and girls are sharing a £2.4 million funding boost from the Scottish Government.

Equalities Minister Kaukab Stewart said the Government’s fund is increasing to £21.6 million.

Say Women, a Glasgow charity which offers accommodation and support to young survivors of sexual abuse, said the money would help them resume some services which were paused due to cost pressures.

Ms Stewart said: “Grassroots organisations across Scotland are at the heart of tackling violence against women and girls.

“Their work is fundamental to creating a country free from gender-based abuse.

“This funding boost will support these organisations, will help prevent abuse occurring and ensure that women and girls who have experienced violence can continue to access the support they deserve.”

Say Women chief executive Pam Hunter said the charity is “delighted” to receive the funds, adding: “This will go towards increasing our investment into projects for the young women within our services.

“In the face of the rising cost of living, increase in NI (national insurance) contributions and inflation, the organisation made the challenging executive decision to limit the variety of activities on offer to those in our care so that we may allow the staff to have a fair living wage.

“This additional funding will reinstate many of the services that were temporarily paused so that Say Women may continue to do the good work supporting young women affected by sexual violence and homelessness.”