Domestic abuse victims waiting up to 80 days for support from Falkirk charity

Waiting time for a first appointment with Committed to Ending Abuse (CEA) has increased from four days to 82 days for “less urgent cases”, members of Falkirk Council’s scrutiny committee heard today (Thursday).

In 2022/23, CEA supported nearly 800 people, mostly women, escape abusive relationships. In feedback given to the council, all of them said they felt safer as a result of the charity’s support.

Falkirk Council funding to CEA was £216,553 for the financial year 2022/23. However this year, this has been reduced to £178,500.

Members were told that the charity’s funding has remained unchanged for several years while costs have gone up, which has led to a reduction in staff. At the same time, the numbers of those accessing the service has increased by around 20 percent over the last five years, leading to the long waiting times.

The council has provided extra funding in recent years to help the charity and they are also working closely with CEA and the Health & Social Care Partnership and Social Work services to review finances and services.

Members heard that CEA has now been given and extra £15,000 of emergency help, with Falkirk Council, Falkirk Health & Social Care Partnership and Police Scotland, each contributing £5000.

Housing support officer Joanna Stewart told councillors: “The organisation will continue to work to keep those affected by domestic abuse in the Falkirk area safe in very difficult circumstances.

“As we enter yet another period of uncertainty with the cost of living crisis, members will appreciate that we have great challenges ahead to support their service users.

“Their assistance often goes above and beyond their remit to ensure that the victims of domestic abuse are supported and safe and we will continue to support the organisation.”

CEA has an office at 21 Wellside Place, Falkirk which is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm.

It’s website says “support, information and reassurance” is available by calling 01324 635 661 during these hours. However, it stresses “in an emergency, always call 999”.