By Thomas Carter
New Dawn New Day (NDND), a women’s centre in Leicester, has launched a new donation drive to support those affected by violence and abuse.
The charity works to help women who have left the criminal justice system and are sufferers of domestic abuse, rape, poverty and homelessness, among other issues.
Without a designated fund, NDND is now looking to the public for donations so that it can continue to support women in desperate need of help.
Speaking to Leicestershire Press, Meg Foxall, the business support manager for NDND and a former DMU student, said: “I think the number one thing our service does is make women realise that they are not alone.
“Lots of the women we work with are very socially excluded, so coming to the centre is really helpful for meeting people from similar backgrounds and forming friendships
“The clients we work with have high levels of need, and our rule is that we will never let a woman sleep on the streets.
“That’s what this Crowdfunder is for – to have an ongoing fund for emergencies, supplies and immediate support.”
As with many charities, NDND was affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, and had to change how it provided its services.
Meg added: “We had to adapt very quickly, as before the pandemic we would have a full centre, with clients in every room, one-to-one sessions, and support groups taking place.
“We moved our service online and over the phone, and have continued our blended approach to working, because we found that some women can’t afford bus fares to see us or find child care.”
On the matter of support, a client of NDND (who must remain anonymous), said: “When you walk into the centre it feels like a huge hug.
“The energy and atmosphere is so lovely, even talking on the phone to staff – it’s a safe space and I can drop my walls.
“Since talking to the charity, I have received non-judgmental support and I didn’t have this before.
“I had felt that no one cared before coming to NDND but I now feel heard and understood. I now realise my thoughts and feelings are valid.”
The charity, which covers the entirety of Leicestershire, also frequently recruits new volunteers, for which full training and support is provided to aid in its mission of helping those in need.
For more information and to donate to the Crowdfunder, visit: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/support-women-affected-by-violence-and-abuse
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