WOMEN across Berkshire are suffering from "substantially increased” domestic abuse during the coronavirus lockdown, a charity has claimed.

Berkshire Woman’s Aid has experienced a 50 per cent increase in calls for refuge space since the lockdown started, leading to calls from the group and the Woman's Equality Party (WEP) for more support for vulnerable women.

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Louise Timlin, from WEP, said: “Nationally, the party is calling for the urgent expansion of Domestic Violence Protection Orders, so domestic abuse perpetrators can be evicted from their homes for the length of the lockdown period.

“For the 1.6 million women that experience domestic abuse each year, lockdown could mean being locked in with their abuser.

“That’s why we need emergency measures and government funding to be allocated in Berkshire to ensure those being abused have access to safe refuge and support.”

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The government has earmarked £750 million in support for charities missing out on funding due to the pandemic.

A 'substantial increase' in domestic abuse cases means local councils are being urged to make sure this cash gets to domestic abuse organisations quickly.

Andrea West, Chief Executive of Berkshire Women’s Aid, added: "These lockdown measures, whilst essential to preserve our NHS and save lives, have increased the risk for those experiencing abuse and reduced the opportunities for survivors and their children to access support or escape an abusive home.

"BWA has always relied on the generous support of our communities who fundraise to support our services and we welcome the government statements this week on critical financial support for charities like ours.

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"We need to know urgently how these funds will be made available to those of us on the frontline delivering services every day to those survivors who desperately need them."