Councillor Barbra Brownridge, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods and Co-operatives, said: “Tackling domestic violence and abuse is a priority for the council and our partners.  It has a devastating effect on the victim but also impacts on the whole family.

“Children and young people who witness it can be emotionally and psychologically scarred for life. Research has shown those who are exposed to violence can suffer low self-esteem, become low achievers and even go on to become offenders themselves.

“In Oldham we are doing as much as possible to protect victims and families and this funding will help.

“Through our work we will continue to help victims to either leave violent relationships, live more safely within relationships or support the prosecution of offenders.

“If you are a victim, or you know of anyone who is suffering at the hands of an abusive partner, report them to us.”

The local authority is one of 46 local authorities across the county getting a share of the fund. This will mean that there will now be 710 new bed spaces in a range of safe accommodation providing shelter to victims of domestic abuse across the country.

Communities Minister Baroness Williams, with Home Office Minister Karen Bradley, has already led a review of services working with women’s domestic abuse charities, local authorities and other local service providers to gain a much clearer understanding of the range of challenges victims and services are facing.

Baroness Williams said: “Domestic abuse is an appalling crime that shatters lives and this Government is determined to ensure that no victim is turned away from the support they need.

If you know anyone in Oldham who is a victim of domestic violence call 0161 636 7525 or visit http://www.endthefear.co.uk/