An organisation that supports victims of domestic abuse has been adopted as the Charity of the Year by Hazlewoods.
Over the next 12 months staff at Hazlewoods will take part in a variety of events to raise money for the vital work of Stroud Beresford Group.
It is a sad fact that on average two women a week are killed by a partner or ex-partner and at least 750,000 children a year witness domestic abuse.
Stroud Beresford Group has been offering accommodation, advice and support to families affected by domestic abuse for over 35 years.
A local, independent charity, it provides Gloucestershire’s only women’s refuge alongside a range of other services aimed at preventing domestic abuse or supporting those at risk.
Stroud Beresford Group also offers outreach services in the community for those affected by domestic abuse, including one to one support, group workshops for vulnerable people as well as professionals, together with a 12 week “Next Steps” programme.
The charity provides services to help children and their parents overcome their experiences, learn new skills and gain the confidence to build a happy life that is free from abuse.
Jill Cooper, manager of Stroud Beresford Group, said: “We are absolutely delighted that Hazlewoods have chosen to support Stroud Beresford Group. It will make a tremendous difference to the families that we help.
“Without such fundraising we just cannot function. It sends out a really strong message of community support for the people who stay in our refuge. There is no other women’s refuge in the county providing a safe place to stay.
“We work with each person’s individual needs. The majority have had their confidence and self-esteem damaged and we start to address that from day one, giving a range of support.”
John Lucas, partner of Hazlewoods Social Committee, said staff would be taking part in fundraising activities throughout the year for Stroud Beresford Group including sponsored runs, dress down days, a quiz and a swimming pool marathon, which would be the equivalent of crossing the English Channel.
“Our Social Committee voted unanimously to support Stroud Beresford Group because it is such a worthwhile cause,” said John. “And because it is quite a small charity we hope we can make a big difference with the money we raise. We also hope we can help raise the profile of the charity throughout the year.”
*For more details on Stroud Beresford Group visit www.stroudwomensrefuge.org