They’ve endured domestic violence. Now they’re victims of austerity | Frances Ryan

The cost of government cuts isn't always visible. But there is no escaping it in Sunderland, where services to vulnerable women are under threat

You've read the headlines about the council services facing death by a thousand cuts, from nursery schools to libraries and community transport for disabled school pupils. After a real-terms cut of 40% in core government grants since 2010, the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (Cipfa) says we are now at the point where councils are "close to the brink" of insolvency. If further proof were needed, look over to Surrey and its council tax referendum, where a council is effectively admitting to voters it can no longer afford to help elderly residents get dressed, or to keep learning disabled adults safe. This is only the beginning. Local government is estimated to be facing a funding black hole of 5.8bn by 2020. If there is any doubt about the brutal impact of these cuts on the ground, just take a look at Sunderland, which is likely to become the only major city in the UK with no refuges for domestic violence victims.

Related: Northumbria police chief leads fight against cuts to women's refuges

Unless Phillipson is told that the funding will be protected, it will mean closed signs on Sunderland's refuge doors

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