It’s great to have the opportunity to say a few words to our supporters, updating everyone on what has been a busy and strange couple of months. The Coronavirus has had a big impact on the lives of many people and charities, but the support that we have continued to receive throughout has been fantastic. It has been brilliant to see how the community has come together to support each other in these difficult times, and I hope that this is something that continues beyond the Coronavirus pandemic.
Fundraising
The Coronavirus has meant that we have had to cancel all of our planned fundraising events, but our supporters have gone above and beyond to raise money for us during this period. The blog we posted a few weeks ago highlighted some of the amazing ways that people had raised money for us and, since then, we have had more people kindly supporting us. Catherine Little has raised nearly £2000 by letting her children cut her hair and the Leeway crowdfunding appeal has now raised over £2000 too.
Food Parcels
We have also been lucky to receive food parcels for our service users from our friends at the Community Sports Foundation and Norwich City Football Club, as well as Norwich residents who donated items as part of the NR2 Big Give appeal. Thank you to everyone who has supported us, it is hugely appreciated by everyone at Leeway!
Domestic Abuse Bill
It has been positive to see the Domestic Abuse Bill debated in parliament again, following the various delays it has encountered in the past year. MPs raised some important points in the recent second reading and I hope that amendments are made at the committee stage to ensure that the Bill supports all victims of domestic abuse. We have shared our thoughts with MPs over the various stages of the Bill so far and have been invited to send in suggestions to the committee stage too. Leeway will continue to campaign alongside national organisations, such as Women’s Aid, to ensure that the Bill supports everyone and achieves the landmark changes that it promises.
Continuing to Raise Awareness
I just wanted to close by reminding everyone of how they can access support, should they need it. If you are in immediate danger, you should always call 999. You can also contact the police in a silent and safe manner by dialling 999 and then pressing 55 to indicate that it is not safe for you to talk.
Leeway’s services are still running as normally and safely as possible at this time, and you can contact us by calling 0300 561 0077. For many, it may not be safe to speak on the phone, as the perpetrator is more than likely in the house at the same time. You can still access support though by emailing adviceandsupport@leewaynwa.org.uk
It is important to look out for friends and family during this particularly difficult time, as well as continuing to highlight how people can access support.
I hope everyone continues to stay safe in the coming weeks and months. Thank you for all your support, it is highly appreciated!
Mandy Proctor, Chief Executive.
