The Chief Executive of a charity that supports women, young people and children who are experiencing, or have been affected by, domestic abuse has praised the efforts of SI Crosby.
Neil Frackelton from Sefton Women’s and Children’s Aid (SWACA) said Soroptimists had played a vital role in ensuring the service since its inception in 1975. The help came in many forms – from providing packs for families who have had to flee violent situations and move into emergency accommodation, (refuge), to regular fund raising and volunteering.
The refuge, Dawn House, is named after a late member of the Club and many people have served as trustees including current member Shirley Smith. The founder of the charity, Lesley Paterson, was also a winner of SI Crosby’s Margaret Yarwood Woman of the Year accolade.
Neil told members that the work of SWACA was needed now more than ever as they continue to work with significant numbers of women and children, affected by domestic abuse, and cases are becoming more complex. Last year, more than 1,500 families were helped. He said the abuse could take many forms, including physical, sexual, verbal, emotional or financial abuse, within an intimate relationship.
SWACA has a team of caseworkers whose aim is to support women and children to live safely, while, as often as possible, remaining in their own home. The refuge is used at times of crisis and is only a last resort. They also offer access to legal advice, and provide counselling and group support and raise awareness of domestic abuse in the wider community.
“I’d like to thank members of SI Crosby for your support since the very beginning. We would not be able to offer the level of services we provide, without the help of people like yourselves,” said Neil.
For more details about the charity, go to www.swaca.com or visit the shop/office at 166, Knowsley Road, Bootle, Sefton, Merseyside, L20 4NR. Telephone 0151 922 8606