Just under £100,000 has been given to Swindon to benefit the victims of domestic violence.

Housing and communities secretary Robert Jenrick announced the funding £99,995 to the borough as part of £16.6m funding to 75 projects across the country to support places in refuges.

Swindon Borough Council's cabinet member for housing and public safety Cathy Martyn said: "Nobody should have to struggle to get the right support or wait months for the help they need. We will ensure that domestic violence is tackled properly and that better support services are in place for people who need them.”

South Swindon MP Robert Buckland, who has been working on the Domestic Abuse Bill in his role as Justice Secretary said: “As MPs we regularly visit Swindon Women’s Refuge, as well as working closely with key local agencies involved in tackling domestic abuse in the town. Many brave survivors have shared their stories with me, so we I fully understand the devastating impact this terrible crime has on victims and their families.

“It is a fact often overlooked that men and boys can also be victims of domestic abuse, rape, stalking, forced marriage and other crimes more regularly associated with violence against women and girls.

“Regardless of a person’s gender, these crimes have a significant and distressing impact on the victim.

“Often survivors are left living in fear in their own homes, the place where they should feel most safe and secure, so I am glad that the Government has provided additional funding to enable victims and their children to stay safe, recover from the trauma, and access safe permanent rehousing where needed.”