A call for continued government funding to support victims of domestic abuse and sexual violence has been made by Thames Valley's police and crime commissioner.

Matthew Barber has written to the Ministry of Justice seeking a continued funding commitment for the provision of specialist support for victims of both crimes.

In a letter to Alex Davies-Jones MP, minister for victims and violence against women and girls, Mr Barber expressed concern about the "critical" funding, which is set to end in March 2025.

He said: "You have recently informed us that the Ministry of Justice will not confirm a future funding decision regarding whether this funding may be continued - either in full, or in part - or whether it will be discontinued entirely, until December.

"As I am certain is the case in other areas, this funding is key in enabling the provision of vital specialist support to victims of crime in the Thames Valley."

He said the uncertainty is already having an "immeasurable impact" on services, with some beginning to lose staff or having to close their doors to new referrals.

He urged the minister to consider the potential impact of any reduction in funding on victims, saying the support would "allow critical services to continue with their crucial and specialist work helping victims/survivors of crime cope and build resilience".