DOMESTIC abuse victims in Braintree, Maldon, Chelmsford, Colchester and Tendring will receive specialist support thanks to £500,000 in Government funding.

Figures, show reported cases in Essex more than doubled from 12,780 in 2015/16 to 26,030 in 2018/19.

The five authorities have joined forces with charities Next Chapter and Open Road to help victims escape domestic violence.

They will work together to provide support for victims with complex issues such as addiction and homelessness.

Women with mental health issues or who are facing barriers such as sexuality, disability, ethnicity or immigration status will be referred to specialist services.

More specialist trauma- informed support will be provided, especially to those not in refuge accommodation.

Funding will also help pay for secure accommodation and access to support services for women and children looking to live independently.

Braintree Council homes boss Kevin Bowers said: “We are so pleased that together with our partners we have attracted this funding. This money will help women and children living with domestic abuse get the support they need when they need it most.

“This extra funding will help provide vital services so that no-one has to face domestic abuse alone.”

Environment boss Wendy Schmitt added: “Next Chapter and Open Road do such wonderful work for residents throughout the district and further afield. With this extra funding more women and children will be able to access the support they deserve.”

Over the last two years Next Chapter has supported more than 1,800 women in the community and more than 180 women and 220 children in its refuge.

Spokesman Jocelyn Van Bruggen said: “Importantly, this new funding will enable us to provide specialist support for children and young people within the family who often live with hidden harm.

“We know these services will make a lasting change to the lives of women and children in Colchester, Chelmsford, Tendring, Braintree and Maldon and provide them with the life-changing opportunity of a life free from domestic abuse.”

The £507,000 will enable the partnership project to run through to March 2021.