Funding appeal as Teesside domestic abuse charity sees 'demand increase'
My Sister's Place in Middlesbrough has started a 'BigGive' campaign
A domestic abuse support charity in Teesside say they need more resources and expertise as demand is increasing.
My Sister's Place in Middlesbrough say they received 5206 referrals into their service last year and supported 4,588 survivors.
They're appealing for donations as part of a 'BigGive' campaign.
On there, they said: "We are addressing the pervasive issue of domestic abuse, which affects one in four women in their lifetime. Domestic abuse is both a crime and a public health crisis, costing nearly £78 billion.
"The prevalence in our community is double the national average, severely impacting mental health, homelessness, and child protection. We received 5206 referrals into our service last year and supported 4,588 survivors. Our demand is increasing. Cases are complex, more resources and expertise is needed.
"Our Specialist Domestic Abuse Service provides comprehensive support to women facing domestic abuse.
"IDVAs offer personalised safety planning, risk assessment, advocacy, and emotional support. They act as intermediaries with the police, legal systems, and social services to ensure the safety and rights of the survivors.
"We require additional funding so we can support the additional women who access our services and to provide the specialist training our staff need due to the complexity of cases."
They have a campaign target of £20,000.