Achievements so far
“In 1974 it was incredibly difficult for women and children to gain protection against domestic violence under the then-current laws. Police dismissed ‘domestics’ as time-wasting and often their response to women was to tell them to ‘go back home and make it up’. Through the efforts of the Women’s Aid movement, much has changed in 30 years and we now work closely with a range of agencies on the development of policies that help women and children experiencing domestic violence.” Nicola Harwin CBE Women’s Aid Director
“30 years ago Women’s Aid helped my mother and I at a time when we were in greatest need, when we needed to flee from my violent father. I remember being so scared when we got to the refuge, thinking he would find us and kill my Mum. When we did find a new house to move in to, I remember being sad to leave the friends I’d made at the refuge but also excited that my Mum and I had a chance to build a new home.” Richard, 42, a former refuge resident
Last year, because of the help of people like you, the support of the public, concerned companies and other organisations, Women’s Aid helped 260,000 women and children to survive domestic violence, providing the support they needed to begin rebuilding their lives following abuse.
In the last year, there have been many developments at Women’s Aid including two new bills: the Domestic Violence Crime and Victims Bill and the Children Bill. These have been the focus of our lobbying work. Domestic violence is increasingly discussed in the media and our work is often included as part of this discussion. Both our public awareness work and the provision of essential services for women and children living with domestic violence continue to develop to meet the increase in demand that arises from this exposure.
Women’s Aid work to end domestic violence against women and children has three major strands:
Protection – by influencing policy change and speaking to the decision makers
Prevention – through raising awareness and education
Provision – by offering a package of 24 hour lifeline services for women and children experiencing domestic violence
