The Ministry of Justice has announced £29.4m in funding  over three years for civil society organisations which support vulnerable victims of crime.

Up to £10.5m will go directly to rape crisis centres as part of the government’s commitment to increasing the provision of rape crisis centres across England and Wales.

It is the first time that the MoJ has committed to guaranteed three-year funding in this area.

Home Secretary Theresa May said: “Sexual violence is a dreadful crime which devastates victims’ lives. We are absolutely committed to ensuring every victim of rape has access to the support that they need to rebuild their lives.

“That is why, for the very first time, we’re guaranteeing stable long-term funding for rape crisis centres. This is a key element of the government’s wider strategy to tackle violence against women and girls.”

The funding pool opens to eligible providers today. Funding decisions will be made by April 2011.