THE POLICE and Crime Commissioner has called for continued support and funding for victims’ services following ‘disappointment’ over funding cuts.
It comes after Bracknell MP Peter Swallow spoke in the House of Commons this week regarding a decrease in funding for domestic abuse support in Berkshire.
Mr Swallow voiced concerns regarding the cut to funding for the BRAVE programme–Building Resilience and Valuing Emotions– which he said had been left “unviable” following a 35% funding cut, which he attributed to the PCC.
The PCC Matthew Barber has penned an open letter to the MP explaining that cuts from the Ministry of Justice negatively impact those providing support to victims, including those of domestic abuse.
In the letter, Mr Barber explained that though the BRAVE programme had been valued and supported, funding constraints meant that it was not possible to prioritise it for funding based on its scope, geographical coverage, and ‘value for money.”
“Ministry of Justice core victims’ services funding has reduced in the Thames Valley by 4.2% for 2025/26. This reduction, combined with inflation, increased salary expectations, and National Insurance rises, has placed significant financial pressure on our local services.
“Despite this, I have prioritised maintaining support across the Thames Valley, aiming for parity in service provision and helping providers manage rising overheads.
“In April 2024, I commissioned a Thames Valley-wide victim service to ensure that we have continued support for victims.
“The Thames Valley Adult Service offers both one-to-one and group support for standard risk domestic abuse victims, including IDVA provision.”
He continued: “However, there is no certainty of funding beyond the current financial year. I hope that you will join with me in asking the Ministry of Justice both to look at increasing funding for domestic abuse services in the future, but also to give clarity over future funding.
“The uncertainty of the annual funding cycle has a real impact on local providers and their viability for the future.”
Speaking of BRAVE’s funding specifically, the letter explains: “Initially, BRAVE operated in a small area of Berkshire and later expanded its reach.
We enquired if it was possible to widen the reach of the service, however, the provider indicated that scaling the service across the Thames Valley was not feasible.
In 2024/25, we allocated £196,401.14 to BRAVE–for 2025/26, due to the funding cuts we proposed £150,000, but the provider declined this offer.”
