A new county wide service has been launched to help survivors of domestic abuse in Carmarthenshire.
Organisations which offer a lifeline have joined together to provide better help and support.
The move brings together providers of housing related support services, and is aimed at delivering one service across the county.
People who have experienced domestic abuse will be able to access all the help they need to be able to live independently in their own homes.
The three Women’s Aid groups in Amman Valley, Carmarthen and Llanelli have joined together.
They are also working closely with Hafan Cymru, which provides housing related support service for women when they leave a refuge, and men experiencing domestic abuse.
Support will be given on managing a household budget, running a home, information on meaningful activities and signposting to other services.
Carmarthenshire County Council’s Housing Executive Board Member and Supporting People Champion cllr Hugh Evans said: “Domestic abuse is one of the causes of homelessness in our county.
“It is essential that people who have experienced domestic abuse are able to access a range of housing related support services that can enable them to live in a safe place.”
Supporting People Principal Officer Ruth Evans said: “In the current economic climate, it is more important than ever that service providers work together to provide a range of services for residents of Carmarthenshire.
“We are delighted that the services for people who experience domestic abuse are joining up together.”
Llanelli Women’s Aid and Sir Gar Floating Support Business Development Manager Vicky Pedicini said: “We are looking forward to working in collaboration with other organisations such as Hafan Cymru.
“We recognise that this will allow a more flexible, holistic approach to our current service provision and maximise the choices for the service user.”
Hafan Cymru Regional Manager for Mid and West Wales Jan Stoneman said: “Partnership working is essential to ensure that we deliver the best possible domestic abuse service to the women, men and young people in Carmarthenshire we so desperately need our support.”
More information about housing related support services can be found in the Directory of Housing Related Support which is available at council offices, Citizens Advice Bureaux and GP surgeries.
It is also available at www.carmarthenshire.gov.uk or contact 01267 228716.
