To ask Her Majesty's Government how many refuge places were available for children in England and Wales, in the years (a) 2005–06, (b) 2006–07, and (c) 2007–08. [HL1423]

Communities and Local Government (CLG) does not record these figures for England. Housing is a devolved matter and as such this department does not hold information pertaining to Wales.

In 2003 the Government announced major investment in refuge provision in England in 2003-06. A total of £34 million capital was allocated and 511 units of accommodation were refurbished or newly built. More recently the Hostels Capital Improvement Programme (2005-07) funded six new and refurbished refuges at a cost of £4 million.

CLG has also recently commissioned new research that will identify the current housing options available to households at risk of domestic violence, and to assess whether this provision meets current need. It will involve establishing the extent and type of temporary and settled accommodation available for households at risk of domestic violence in England, including the provision of housing related support services delivered to both temporary and settled accommodation, and to households' own homes.

CLG provides essential revenue support for victims of domestic violence through the Supporting People programme—£64.5 million in 2007-08 up from £6l.6 million in 2006-07.