£3.1 million boost for specialist support services in Thames Valley
Funding targets domestic abuse, sexual violence, and stalking services
Last updated 28th May 2026
More than £3 million is being allocated to 18 specialist services to support victims of domestic abuse, sexual violence, and stalking across Thames Valley - including Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, and Milton Keynes.
Thames Valley Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), Matthew Barber secured the funding for the next two years, to ensure continued provision of essential services, such as: legal advice for domestic abuse victims, support for male victims of rape and sexual abuse and other specialist provision to help victim-survivors build resilience.
It also includes Independent Sexual Violence Advisers (ISVAs), Independent Domestic Violence Advisers (IDVAs), and Stalking Advocacy Service.
Matthew Barber said: “Domestic abuse, rape and sexual violence and stalking are some of the highest harm crimes an individual can experience.
Adding: “We were able to protect services from the funding reduction in 2025/26 and have committed that the 2% increase received from the Ministry of Justice for this financial year (2026/27) will be passed on, in full, to services.
“Some organisations will also receive an enhanced uplift in recognition of cost-of-living pressures and to ensure consistent salaries for specialist positions across the Thames Valley.
'Ensures expert, dedicated support' for victims
Funding has also been confirmed for 2027/28, totalling over £1.59 million.
Barber says, “this will give the sector and post-holders more stability and ensure that victims will continue to have access to the vital support these 18 organisations provide”.
From April to September 2025, these services assisted over 2,600 survivors of domestic abuse, sexual violence, and stalking.
Laura Hunter, CEO of Flag DV, says the funds allows them to “continue providing free family-law legal advice to victims and survivors of domestic abuse on matters such as children, divorce, and protection.
“In addition, the Victims’ Grant Fund has enabled us to grow our offer by developing and delivering online court-support workshops, helping survivors better understand and navigate the family court process.”
Dawn Hodson, Chief Executive of Reducing the Risk of Domestic Abuse, said: “This vital work ensures that victim-survivors across Thames Valley have expert, dedicated support when navigating the Criminal Justice System.
“Attending court can be an extremely stressful and daunting experience. For many, it comes at a point of heightened risk, fear and uncertainty. Our specialist court-based IDVAs provide tailored, trauma-informed support – helping individuals understand the process, feel prepared, and stay as safe as possible throughout.
“This is not just about getting through a court hearing – it is about safety, confidence and ensuring that victim-survivors are supported, respected and empowered at every stage.”