HIGH PROFILE MP Jess Phillips visited the Sandycroft Centre in Redditch recently to celebrate its work aiding victims of abuse.
The aim was to raise awareness to the critical work at Sandycroft, which helps women and children escape abuse.
It comes as the government launches a commitment of halving violence against women and girls over the next decade.
The Birmingham Yardley MP met with staff, volunteers and survivors alike, all involved in the Eve project – Sandycroft’s dedicated domestic and sexual abuse service for women.
Survivors also shared moving stories about the barriers they personally faced in reaching for help and how Sandycroft has helped them rebuild their lives.
The importance of local, specialist services was heavily underlined by the visit, as well as the need for sustained investment and political backing.
“It was great to visit The Sandycroft Centre and hear about the work they were doing to help survivors of domestic abuse rebuild their lives,” said Ms Phillips, who herself has been the victim of vitriolic abuse.
“I met with women who said they were initially nervous to reach out for help – but one thing they all agreed on was that they were glad they did. This Government is absolutely committed to halving violence against women and girls over the next decade and delivering a safer world for every victim.
“Services like Sandycroft and support for dedicated staff and volunteers is absolutely key to achieving that.”
Chelsea McKenzie, domestic sbuse service manager at Sandycroft, said: “One of the most effective ways to turn political promises into real protection is through properly resourced, local specialists centres like ours.
“Being embedded in the heart of the community means we can provide far more than just refuge – we offer trauma-informed care, culturally competent support and trusted relationships built over time.”
