A GLASGOW project has helped nearly 400 survivors of domestic abuse write off their debt.
The Financially Included initiative started in 2022 and has since helped 390 survivors of domestic abuse where financial coercive control is a factor.
The assistance, which includes having debts written off, claiming eligible benefits, and accessing additional support from charities, totalled more than £1.6million.
The project is a partnership between GEMAP, Glasgow's Violence Against Women Partnership (GVAWP), and Glasgow City Council's Violence Against Women Services.
Ann Fehilly of Glasgow's Violence Against Women Services said: "Financial coercive control is a form of abuse which can limit a victim's ability to leave a relationship, seek safety and build a better life for them and their children.
"It can also often be an early red flag indicating abuse.
"Rushing the pace of a relationship and sharing economic resources, can trap women longer term.
“This unique Glasgow project, which runs in tandem with other GVAWP support for domestic abuse victims, is helping women gain control and rebuild their lives.”
The project not only assists survivors but also trains money advice organisations to identify signs of coercive control and offers guidance on advocating for and supporting survivors.
A toolkit has been developed to help public and private sector organisations respond effectively to the issue.
The project's achievements were presented to Glasgow City Council's Environment and Liveable Neighbourhoods Committee on August 27.
