UK announces new funding to support child victims of abuse

By Aysu Bicer

LONDON (AA) - The UK on Wednesday announced new funding to support child victims of abuse, with over £17 million (nearly $20 million) given to projects across England and Wales to support children affected by domestic abuse.

From the £17.8 million, up to £7.4 million will be invested over three years to programs which prioritize early intervention and research into the most effective ways of preventing abuse, said Minister for Safeguarding Sarah Dines in a statement.

"The impact of domestic abuse is devastating and it is especially heartbreaking that children are being affected by this horrific crime. This is why we have invested additional funding into vital services supporting children who have been impacted," she added.

"We are also proud to invest further in projects which identify the most effective ways to intervene early and prevent these crimes from being committed in the first place, which will protect those most vulnerable to abuse," she said.

The Home Office also launched the groundbreaking, long-term behavioral change "Enough" campaign aiming to enable bystanders with a range of safe ways to intervene if they witness an incident of violence against women and girls, ranging from sexual harassment on the street, public transport, or at work.