Domestic Violence Refuges Face Closure Due to NI Tax Raid Concerns
Charities warn that rising National Insurance costs threaten vital domestic violence services
Domestic Violence, Charities, Rachel Reeves, National Insurance, UK
Isle of Wight: Domestic violence refuges are in serious trouble. A charity is sounding the alarm that the recent tax changes could force them to shut down.
Women’s Aid is really worried. They say the hike in National Insurance contributions could mean losing crucial funding, which would put women and kids at risk.
This news comes at a tough time, especially with the ongoing discussions about grooming scandals. Many victims rely on these charity services for support.
In a note to MPs, Women’s Aid explained that the tax increases could wipe out their Gift Aid funding. That’s a big deal for them.
They mentioned that the autumn Budget was a huge setback for an already struggling sector. With demand rising, they need more support, not less.
Women’s Aid represents over 175 charities focused on violence against women and girls. They pointed out that the NI rise could cost smaller organizations around £8,000 a year and up to £187,000 for larger ones.
They’re urging Rachel Reeves to step in and exempt groups that provide these essential services from the tax hike.
Joe Robertson, a Conservative MP, echoed these concerns. He fears that more women will be in danger because of the tax increase.
He highlighted that Labour’s tax hike could severely impact charities like Refuge and Rape Crisis, which are already stretched thin.
Robertson stressed that without these charities, it’ll be much harder to tackle violence against women and girls effectively.
Sarah Dyke, a Liberal Democrat MP, shared that one center in her area is facing a £40,000 increase in wages. They might have to cut pay raises and reduce services.
She called on the Government to rethink these changes, as they could hurt those who need help the most.
Sorcha Eastwood, an Alliance Party MP from Northern Ireland, also urged the Chancellor to reconsider the tax hike. She believes it contradicts efforts to combat violence against women.