Wolverhampton abuse refuge in plea for help as budget is cut
A refuge for people suffering domestic abuse is appealing for help as it battles budget cuts.
The Haven Centre in Wolverhampton is pleading for backing from the city council, community groups, other organisations and individuals.
They have joined a nationwide campaign - run by Women's Aid and dubbed Save Refuges to Save Lives - that highlights the lack of specialist services for women and children who are homeless after experiencing domestic violence.
Officials at the Haven Centre revealed that the West Midlands currently has just 452 of the 567 bed spaces needed to cope with demand in the region - a 20 per cent shortfall.
Kath Rees, Chief Executive Officer at The Haven explained: "Two women a week are killed by a partner or ex-partner in this country and we have worked for over 40 years to protect women in the region from perpetrators of domestic violence, to help women and children live full lives free from the fear of violence and try to prevent these murders.
"Male victims are also supported by The Haven through a partnership with St George's Charity.
"However, cuts and gruelling commissioning practices across the country are leading to refuges and services closing and women and children being left at risk.
"We are sending a plea to our local council and supporters to urge them to protect services here so we can continue to play our part in the vital national network of domestic violence services."
The public are being asked to sign a petition indicating their support.
Polly Neate, Chief Executive of Women's Aid said: "Perpetrators of domestic violence will do everything they can to control their victim, which is why specialist support services are essential to help women escape and build independent lives.
"A national network of support services, which allows women to get help locally or escape the area, is essential to protecting women and children.
"This is why we are sending out the SOS signal together, and we urge the local authority to make a commitment to ensuring that the West Midlands will play its part in protecting vulnerable women and children across the country."