DOMESTIC abuse victims and their children living in Dorset will receive more support thanks to £1.4million of extra government funding.

The money will help victims and their children access life-saving support including advocacy, counselling and therapy in safe locations such as refuges or specialist safe accommodation, where victims and their children can go to get away from their abusers.

Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council will receive £750,000 while Dorset Council has secured £651,000.

Councils across England will receive £125million in total, including £11.2million for the South West.

Funding has been announced ahead of the passage of the Domestic Abuse Bill later this year.

Eddie Hughes, Minister for Rough Sleeping and Housing, said: "Domestic abuse is a heinous crime which threatens the lives of victims in their own homes where they should feel safe.

"So it’s right that we’re giving victims support in safe accommodation and providing councils with money to deliver essential services that will help them and their children rebuild their lives.

"This is part of a long-term strategy to provide broader support for domestic abuse victims, both in safe accommodation like refuges and in their homes."