New Funding Secured for Domestic Abuse Support in London
A series of new funding allocations has been approved to bolster support services for domestic abuse survivors in London. This follows the implementation of the Domestic Abuse Act 2021, which mandates local authorities to provide safe accommodation for survivors and their children.
Key Developments in Funding
Since the Domestic Abuse Act came into effect on October 1, 2021, the Greater London Authority (GLA) has received significant financial backing to fulfill its responsibilities under the legislation. Mayoral Decisions (MDs) have approved multiple funding packages:
- £20.688 million for the 2021-22 financial year.
- £20.745 million for 2022-23.
- £21.160 million for 2023-24, followed by £21.559 million for 2024-25.
- An anticipated £26.869 million for 2025-26.
In addition to these allocations, the GLA will engage in a collaborative partnership with the Mayor’s Office for Policing and Crime (MOPAC) to enhance the rollout of support services. This partnership aims to streamline the efforts in offering accommodation and resources for those affected by domestic violence.
Future Funding and Programmes
As part of ongoing initiatives, the Assistant Director of Housing Programmes has been assigned to oversee the Accommodation and Wider Support for Those Who Need it Most (AWS) delivery plan, which integrates the Domestic Abuse Safe Accommodation (DASA) programme. A request for funding for the 2026-27 fiscal year is pending, with the GLA planning to use reserve funds if the allocation from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) falls short of expectations.
Moreover, the Led ‘By and For’ grants fund, initiated in June 2025, is designed to assist organisations offering tailored support to marginalised survivors. This fund has attracted numerous applications and awarded £18.37 million across 17 organisations. These grants are set to commence service delivery in April 2026, contingent on final contracting agreements.
Extending Existing Contracts
The DASA framework, established in December 2021, features a range of service providers aimed at delivering direct support to survivors. Plans are underway to extend existing contracts under this framework until March 2027, ensuring continuity as new commissioning opportunities arise. Specifically, eight providers under Lot 2 of the DASA framework will have their contracts extended to avoid service gaps.
Continuation Grants and Additional Support
In a bid to maintain stability, the Mayor is also seeking to extend 31 legacy continuation grants that were inherited from MHCLG. These grants have provided crucial support to various projects aimed at helping victims with services such as advocacy and housing-related support. Approval is being sought to extend these grants for an additional year at an estimated cost of £6.48 million.
Background
Since the Domestic Abuse Act 2021 came into play, legal responsibilities for supporting domestic abuse victims have significantly shifted towards local authorities. The GLA’s comprehensive approach aims to address the complexities surrounding domestic violence, especially among vulnerable populations who face additional barriers in accessing essential services.
Source: official statements, news agencies, and public reports.
https://www.london.gov.uk/add2797-dasa-programme-delivery-commissioned-services-and-grants-2026-27
