As part of the Government's Violence against Women and Girls strategy due to be launched later this week, child sexual abuse survivors will also have access to specialist, trauma-informed care in one place as the multi-agency Child House model expands to all NHS regions in England, backed by up to £50m.

Health and social care secretary, Wes Streeting, said: ‘As a service that often has first eyes on abuse victims, the NHS plays a vital role in supporting and treating victims. These changes will put victims first, making sure they have specialist care and reliable support when they need it most.'

A new national NHS initiative will ensure there are dedicated referral services for women and girls affected by violence and abuse in every area of England by 2029.

The Steps to Safety initiative will connect patients to specialist domestic abuse and sexual violence services within their local area through their GP. Training will be offered to GP practice staff in all regions so they can better identify and respond to domestic abuse and sexual violence.

Cllr Matt Boughton, chair of the LGA's Safer and Stronger Communities committee, said: ‘Local government stands ready to work with Government and healthcare providers to help ensure that anyone affected by domestic abuse and sexual violence gets the support they need, but councils need a long-term and stable financial approach, alongside improved coordination and greater local flexibility around commissioning, to be able to deliver this fully.

‘We look forward to seeing more detail as set out in the Government's upcoming Violence Against Women and Girls Strategy.'