SEA responds to the Autumn Statement 2023

Today the Chancellor to the Exchequer delivered the Autumn Statement, an update on the Government’s taxation and spending plans.

Commenting on commitments outlined in the statement, Nicola Sharp-Jeffs, CEO of Surviving Economic Abuse, said: “The uplift to Universal Credit and housing benefit plus £12 million extra funding announced in today’s Autumn Statement will help save the lives of economic abuse survivors. Access to money and support to stay in work is the difference between victim-survivors being trapped with a dangerous abuser or being able to escape and safely rebuild their lives.

“We’re pleased the Chancellor has recognised the impact skyrocketing living costs have on domestic abuse victim-survivors by extending the flee fund we called for alongside Women’s Aid. The pilot fund, administered by Women’s Aid, showed how much survivors and their children desperately need money for essentials, like food and travel, after fleeing with nothing.

“Economic safety is key to physical safety and victim-survivors need access to an independent income and secure employment to rebuild their lives after economic abuse. Specialist training is critical to employers being able to spot the signs of domestic abuse and confidently support their employees. This investment in support for survivors in the workplace will help victim-survivors stay in work and turbo-charge their economic empowerment.”

ENDS