A NEW group, Friends of the Crisis and Information Centre, which includes the West Dorset Refuge for women and children who are fleeing domestic abuse, has been formed to raise funds and support a new service providing emotional support and a refuge for families leaving an abusive situation.
Gill Smith, chairman of the new support group said: “We want to raise funds for the essentials that these families need, as well as emotional support such as counselling.
“We have had brilliant support so far from Beau Hairdressers and Fruits of the Earth who have collection boxes for toiletries and non-perishable foods and items such as clothing, toys and good quality bedding. There is also a collection box for at the Youth Centre in Gundry Lane.”
Anybody who would like to know more about the friends, to offer support or join the group should write to [email protected]
Martyn Underhill, Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner told the group: “Protecting people at risk of harm and supporting victims are both key themes of my new Police and Crime Plan and this includes provision for victims of domestic abuse.
“The police in West Dorset have specially trained teams of officers who are dedicated to robustly investigating domestic abuse incidents and offer dedicated support to high-risk victims.”
If you are experiencing domestic abuse you can call 0800 032 5204 to get help and support. Anyone at risk should call 999.