ASDA supports lifelines for victims of domestic violence

Charities and groups got a helping hand from the Asda St Helens today (7th November), when they were awarded with funding from the Asda Foundation.

St.Helens Council Mobile phone appeal received a cheque for £200, which will be spent on buying mobile phones to give to people who are at risk from domestic violence.

Rod Jones, Safer Communities Manager said "men and women who are living with the threat of domestic violence are often too scared to make that crucial call for help, and a big part of that is the fear that the call could be traced by their abuser. By giving these individuals mobile phones, they have that vital link to services that can offer them advice, support or even an immediate refuge from the violence."
This scheme forms part of the "White Ribbon Campaign", which aims to raise awareness of the issue of Domestic Violence and encourage men and women to make a pledge to make a stand against Domestic Violence.

St Helens Council's Cabinet Member for Environmental Protection and Safer Communities Councillor Richard McCauley said: "In St Helens there are over 4,000 domestic abuse calls are made to the police every year - which is completely unacceptable.

"Although both men and women can be victims - and our Independent Domestic Violence Advocacy service supports both males and females - women are far more likely to suffer multiple incidents of abuse and sexual violence. Around one in four women will be victims of domestic violence in their lifetime."

The campaign will culminate in a "Walk a Mile in her Shoes" campaign, where men will walk from the Town Hall to Asda on Thursday 22nd November-wearing high heels. There will then be the opportunity for the public to sign the pledge at store, and be entered into a draw for a chance to win Saints' Captain Paul Wellens' 2012 shirt - signed & framed.

Cheques for £50 each were also awarded to PERTH centre, Thatto Heath, towards their refurbishment costs. The Wilson's Disease Association also received £50, which will support them in raising awareness of Wilson's Disease.

For further information about the white ribbon campaign and to sign the online pledge, please visit www.sthelens.gov.uk/whiteribbon