The Lincolnshire Community Foundation (1092328; grants of £1 million pa) with the Evan Cornish Fund, is tackling domestic violence.
- Nearly 13 million domestic assaults a year in the UK
- On average, it takes 32 assaults before a victim “breaks free”
- 2 women a week are killed by a violent partner
- Government funding has been cut by 50% since 2009
- Kesteven and South Holland should host 33 refuge places for victims (according to Women’s Aid guidelines) but have none
- Violent attacks are 60% under-reported (police sources)
Given a growing problem (assaults are on the increase) and diminishing resources, LCF agreed to support a pragmatic, new approach.
Foundation Director Gordon Hunter said: “We have part-funded “Move on Together”, a scheme run by the West Lincolnshire Domestic Abuse Service. They train and deploy volunteers to act as mentors to victims of domestic violence.
“Recruits get eight weeks of training and “shadow” work, before pairing with “survivors”. Seven months into the programme, volunteer enthusiasm and feedback is very positive.
“It’s not only a realistic, cost-effective approach, it’s also, because of its structured, hands-on nature, very effective. 30 pairs are on a six month journey towards achievable goals like building confidence or getting more involved in their local community.”
Reported outcomes include
- Improved overall well-being
- Increased confidence and self esteem
- A more positive attitude
- Increased understanding of Domestic Abuse
- Feeling safer, less dependent but more connected to the community
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