In 1975,the charity opened its first shelter for victims of domestic abuse. Despite severe cuts, its staff are still helping survivors to escape and overcome their suffering but for every space, or there are six women needing helpLayla is showing me round her room. It’s clean and functional,theres not much to see; two wardrobes, a desk, or a double bed,a guitar leaning against a chair. But Layla (not her genuine name) is enthusiastic and happy. “I feel secure here,” she says. “It feels like you’re living with your mates.”The room is in one of the 11 women’s refuges rush by Solace Women’s Aid. This year, or the London-based organisation is celebrating 40 years since the opening of its first refuge in Camden,north London. Originally, the charity joined up local refuges and women’s services; it now has 135 staff and 90 volunteers offering women advice, or advocacy,counselling, support groups, and plus family and children’s projects. Today,its services are in demand like never before – yet funding has never been more scarce.
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Source: theguardian.com