Victoria Atkins, Member of Parliament for Louth and Horncastle, recently visited Springfield Domestic Abuse Centre in her ministerial capacity as Home Office Undersecretary of State. Responsible for Crime Safeguarding and Vulnerability, Victoria has a strong parliamentary record of legislating for better protection for victims of domestic violence, having unveiled landmark draft legislation on the topic earlier this month.

Of the visit, Victoria said, ''It was humbling to hear about the work they do and the invaluable help they offer to abuse victims in providing a place of safety and helping them begin to rebuild their lives.''

''I was moved to hear some of the horrific experiences of some of the women staying in the refuge, and their initial thoughts on the draft bill were of immense value to me.''

''Thank you to everyone at Springfield for such a warm welcome. I very much hope that the draft bill will, in the future, go on to make a real difference to victims lives.''