Christmas can be one of the hardest times of the year for families facing domestic abuse. Alcohol-fuelled family gatherings, financial stress and the pressure to have the perfect holiday can all exacerbate the impact of domestic abuse on those who are already at risk.
With 1 in 4 women in England and Wales facing domestic abuse in their lifetime and an average of 2 women per week killed by a current or former partner, North Devon Against Domestic Abuse (NDADA) is launching a festive fundraising appeal to support those in need.
Adapting lyrics from popular Christmas songs (e.g. ‘Walking in a winter without harm’, ‘Last Christmas I gave you my heart… This year I’m living without fear’), NDADA’s Christmas campaign will highlight the plight of families living with, and fleeing from, domestic abuse.
‘Christmas can be a difficult time of year for women and children staying in our refuge, many of whom will have fled their homes with nothing except the clothes on their backs,’ explains NDADA CEO Hannah Ashford. ‘By changing the wording of popular Christmas tunes, we aim to raise awareness and invite people to give whatever they can in order to support survivors of abuse.’
The appeal will raise money for NDADA’s refuge (the only one of its kind in Devon) and go towards providing food, clothes, toys and other items to ensure women and children fleeing from domestic abuse can enjoy a safe and happy Christmas.
Supporters are encouraged to donate in nominations of £5, £10, £15 or £20, which will go towards a range of festive care packages:
- Warm Wishes Package: £5 could provide a warm pair of socks or gloves for a woman or child living in the refuge.
- Safe Night’s Sleep Package: £10 could provide a cosy blanket or bedding to help someone affected by domestic abuse stay warm this winter.
- Festive Food Package: £15 could contribute to providing a festive holiday meal to a family living in the refuge.
- Christmas Care Package: £20 donation could go towards a care package containing essential items and small comforts, such as toiletries, warm clothing, and a journal for an adult. Or warm clothing, toys and games for a child.
You can donate online on the JustGiving page: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/ndada-christmas-appeal-2023
Hannah says: ‘We encourage the local community to get behind this appeal and help us raise much-needed funds for women and children living in our refuge. Your kind donations will spread warmth and joy by gifting hot meals, warm clothes, toys and other comforts, and provide respite from difficult and often distressing circumstances.
‘Please give what you can. We really appreciate your support.’
