Diana Johnson MP, Labour’s Shadow Home Office Minister, responding to leading women’s charities warning domestic violence refuge provision is at crisis point, said:

“Across the country refuges and services for women and children suffering from domestic violence have been forced to close because of the decisions of this Government. 

“Despite repeated warnings from Labour and campaign groups, Theresa May’s failure to act means too many victims are being left with no support.

“Refuges provide vital support for women and children escaping and trying to recover from domestic violence. Of course it is important to invest in preventative services and look at different types of support for victims of domestic violence, but that should not be at the expense of local specialist services that have a track record of successfully helping women and children in need.”