This Christmas, our domestic abuse specialist, Glow, has launched their festive fundraising appeal to support families living in their safe accommodation services.
Last year Glow received over 2,500 referrals into their services, including in safe accommodation, across Staffordshire.
The provider has three refuges and community-based safe accommodation across the county, that provides shelter and support for families and single people escaping violence and abuse. These homes help individual survivors, and their families, start a new chapter and rebuild their lives after experiencing domestic abuse.
Money raised during this year’s campaign will go towards organising festive activities, outings, and events to make sure that families spending the festive season in safe accommodation can create special memories, even during difficult times.
At the heart of the campaign is Ruby*, a mother of four who spent last Christmas in refuge for the very first time.
Ruby entered the refuge just before the school summer holidays in August last year. “I didn’t know what I was going through at the time – I just knew it wasn’t right.
“He made me feel like friends and loved ones weren’t ‘good.’ Everyone was a problem, and he was the only one who could be there for me.”
“Even though he wasn’t hitting me, everything else that was going on was abuse. But at the time I didn’t realise that. I didn’t know what it was – I couldn’t put my finger on it.
“Moving into refuge meant that we were safe, but it did feel like the end of the world. You just don’t know if there’s a light at the end of the tunnel.”
Ruby spent her first Christmas in refuge last year and ‘couldn’t believe’ the support she received.
“I had no idea what it would be like, but the support from Glow staff and the local community was just amazing. The local community donated presents for my children and the refuge arranged days out and activities. On Christmas Day the presents were nonstop. Big bags full. Everything donated by the local community and shared out among everyone.
“The highlight was the trip to the Polar Express train. My boys were able to experience something like this after so many years, and my younger ones had never experienced a Christmas activity like this.
“Just being in a refuge during this festive season and having the chance with my children to start again has restored my faith in humanity.”
Funds raised through Glow’s 2024 Christmas campaign will enable their specialist teams to arrange events and activities for families, making the festive season as special as possible, despite difficult circumstances.
Ruby added: “We are women that have had houses, businesses, and things in life. It’s just that our situation now is unfortunate. When we are literally starting from scratch, we are grateful for everything we receive.”
To support Glow’s Christmas campaign and help women like Ruby this Christmas, please click here.
*name changed to protect Ruby's real identity.
