EFFORTS to tackle domestic abuse in the region have received a boost.

West Yorkshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) and partner organisations have been awarded £215,010 in additional Home Office funding.

The money will help fund measures including perpetrator-focused programmes.

PCC Mark Burns-Williamson said: “The ongoing Covid-19 pandemic has brought with it increased isolation, which has subsequently amplified the opportunity for domestic abuse to occur.

“It is an issue that is more relevant now than ever before and one which we must act quickly to address, particularly as it is unacceptable behaviour and an offence that often goes unreported.

“The funding we have now secured might just prove to be a lifeline to those whose circumstances have been exacerbated by the current situation.

“It will assist in delivering important programmes and strengthen the evaluation of any positive interventions. To ensure the continuation of these crucial strands of work, both my office and key partners will be providing match funding.”