Lib Dems: Truss reveals Govt's inadequacy over support for domestic abuse victims

Following the appearance of the Minister for Women and Equalities, Liz Truss, at the Women and Equalities Committee today, Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for Home Affairs and Equalities Christine Jardine said:

"Liz Truss has today revealed the true extent of the Government's concerning lack of understanding of the current situation for domestic abuse survivors and pressures on support services during the coronavirus crisis.

"Before the coronavirus pandemic began, women’s refuges were already under significant pressure for resources which led to many closures. Now refuges may be forced to choose between preventing the spread of the coronavirus or remaining open to support survivors of domestic abuse.

"I urge the Government to make domestic abuse support professionals key workers so that they can continue to do their important work in supporting victims right across the country.

"Not only have the Government done too little too late to support domestic abuse survivors and support services, but Liz Truss was clearly not on top of the key issues today. This is an insult to survivors.”