EMERGENCY funding has been pledged to support victims and survivors of domestic abuse during the coronavirus pandemic.

More than £500,000 will be administered by the Ministry of Justice to police and crime commissioner Katy Bourne to distribute to support organisations across Sussex.

Organisations which help victims of domestic abuse and sexual violence are being invited to bid for funding from the £576,000 by 5pm on Monday.

Mrs Bourne said: “I already commission and work closely with a number of support services across our county so I know the financial struggles they are facing during this pandemic as they rapidly adapt their services to ensure that help remains available to those in need.

“The work they do in our communities is always vital but, arguably, even more so now that the risk to so many has been heightened by the social distancing restrictions in place.

“This is why this additional funding from the Ministry of Justice is very welcome.

“If you are working in our communities to support victims of these crimes and could use some help, please come forward and apply.”

For more information and to apply for funding, visit sussex-pcc.gov.uk/coronavirus-information.