Knowsley Council staff raised over £590 for The Refuge, a 36-bed accommodation for women and children who are escaping domestic abuse, as part of last year’s White Ribbon Day.
Staff made donations in return for a white ribbon which they then wore throughout the 16 Days of Action to raise awareness of gender-based violence and domestic abuse.
The Refuge is managed by The First Step, Knowsley’s independent domestic abuse support service. The First Step is a registered charity, and the donation will support them to run the refuge and the various services and programmes available.
Cllr Shelley Powell, Knowsley Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods, visited The First Step to hand the donation over.
Cllr Powell said: “The First Step does vital work in our communities, supporting those who are experiencing, or have experienced, domestic abuse.
It is important that we have safe spaces such as The Refuge for women and children. The service helps them to build their independence and start their recovery journey in a supportive, understanding and empowering environment.”
Debi Copel, Refuge Manager at The First Step (Independent Specialist Domestic Abuse Service) said: “The generous donation to our refuge at The First Step means more than words can express. It brings warmth, safety, and hope to women and children who are rebuilding their lives after experiencing unimaginable fear and hardship. Because of this support, they are reminded that they are not alone — that kindness still exists, and that healing is possible. The families often arrive with nothing, and we help them to get back on their feet and this money will go a long way to helping them on their journey..”
Support for domestic abuse in Knowsley.
If you, your child, or someone you know is at immediate risk of harm, you should contact the police urgently, call 999.
If you are not at immediate risk but are concerned, please contact one of the services listed below:
Knowsley Council Safer Communities Service (Specialist Domestic Abuse Service)
Tel: 0151 443 2610
Enquiries.safercommunities@knowsley.gov.uk
Knowsley Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub
Tel: 0151 443 2600
The First Step (Specialist Domestic Abuse Service)
Tel: 0151 548 3333
Website: www.thefirststep.org.uk
Savera UK
Helpline 0800 107 0726
www.saverauk.co.uk
Support is also available through:
- National Domestic violence Helpline 0808 2000 247
- Men’s Advice Line 0808 801 0327
- LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Helpline 0800 999 5428
- Women’s Aid – Live chat to Women’s Aid
Galop
Galop is the leading LGBT+ anti-violence and abuse charity, providing the National LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Helpline. They provide advice and support to individuals who have experienced hate crime, sexual violence, and domestic abuse and have an online referral form. They also offer a Trans Advocacy Service.
Website: www.galop.org.uk
Helpline: 0800 999 5428
Email: help@galop.org.uk