A Lanarkshire MSP has welcomed the Scottish Government’s £2 million investment to help women and children escape abusive relationships, strengthening efforts to tackle economic and financial abuse across Scotland.
The “Fund to Leave” initiative provides emergency financial support for essentials such as rent, food, clothing and transport—helping to remove the financial barriers that too often trap victims in dangerous situations.
The funding is expected to support up to 2,400 women and their children to leave abusive partners safely, with 233 women and a further 300 children already having received aid from the scheme this year.
Motherwell and Wishaw MSP Clare Adamson said: “The £2 million ‘Fund to Leave’ will make a real difference to women and children facing abuse, particularly those experiencing economic control and financial dependency.
“We know that one of the biggest barriers to leaving an abusive relationship is not having the financial means to do so. By providing immediate, practical support, this fund empowers victims to take that crucial step to safety.
“Recent figures underline the scale of the challenge, with one in seven women in the UK experiencing economic abuse in 2024/25, rising to one in three women from minoritised ethnic backgrounds, while women with children were noted to be three times more likely to be affected.
“Alarmingly, 42% of survivors did not or were unable to seek support, often due to financial insecurity, coercive control, stigma and fear of further harm or through being unaware of the aid available.
“No one should ever feel forced to remain in an abusive situation because they cannot afford to leave. This investment helps remove that barrier and supports survivors to rebuild their lives with dignity and independence.
“Tackling domestic abuse, including economic and financial abuse, requires sustained action and partnership. The SNP remains committed to ensuring that everyone experiencing abuse can access the support and protection they need.”
The Fund to Leave, delivered in partnership with Scottish Women’s Aid and local organisations, forms part of wider work to prevent homelessness and support survivors of domestic abuse across Scotland.
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