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

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

The five authorities have now 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 those who face barriers such as sexuality, disability, ethnicity or immigration status will be referred to specialist services.

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

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

Maldon District Council leader Adrian Fluker said: “We are delighted to be part of this bid to continue to provide the much-needed specialist support to those who are escaping from domestic violence and the associated difficulties that domestic violence can bring.”

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 accommodation.

Jocelyn Van Bruggen, of Next Chapter, 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 and provide the life-changing opportunity of a life free from domestic abuse.”