70 Backpacks Ensure Confident Start to School for Children affected by Domestic Abuse
70 backpacks filled with back-to-school essentials like water bottles, stationery, and uniform have been donated to children living in Wolverhampton who are affected by domestic abuse.
The donations are for the children and mothers supported by The Haven Wolverhampton, a Women’s Aid organisation and the city’s leading domestic abuse charity. Its recent ‘Back To School Appeal’ saw donations from individuals and organisations such as Fairway Healthcare, Embark Learning, Jointing Tech, Salisbury Poultry, Safran, and Midland Metro Alliance.
Many women and children come into The Haven’s safe accommodation with nothing more than the clothes on their back. Research shows that as many as 95% of victims and survivors of domestic abuse are also subjected to financial and economic abuse. This means they often have little or no access to money or necessities, leaving them extremely disadvantaged.
For children starting at a new school, or a new year at school, it can be daunting, not least for those who have experienced abuse. The ‘Back To School Appeal’ ensures that families have the essentials for school; children can feel confident, included, and ready to learn, while mums can be relieved of financial pressure and the emotional impact it can bring.
The appeal has had a positive impact on the wellbeing of children and mothers within The Haven’s safe accommodation and community outreach services.
One mum, Zara*, with currently no access to benefits and a little amount of money for essentials, found the school bags a huge support to her and her children were pleased. A 19-year-old, Violet*, who is studying medicine at college, received a bag and said she was overwhelmed by the support and that it encouraged her for her studies.
Lena*, aged 15, who received a backpack and essentials, said: “Perfect – I needed a new bag!” and Jessica*, aged 5, said: “I really like it. Thank you.”
On receiving a backpack for her child, one mum, Sarah*, said: “Thank you so much for the bag… It is exactly what my daughter needed. She was so made up with all the pens and stuff. Thank you.”
Anna Pendlebury, Fundraising and Grants Lead at The Haven Wolverhampton, said:
“We are so grateful of the ‘Back To School Appeal’ donations. Many children arrive at The Haven having had their lives turned completely upside down – fleeing abuse for their safety has meant they’ve left behind their homes and sometimes their schools. Providing children with a backpack and school essentials not only gives them the items to support their learning, but also the dignity and pride that every child deserves.
Anna Pendlebury, Fundraising and Grants Lead at The Haven Wolverhampton, and Alex O’Neill, Head of Operations at Fairway Healthcare
“Thanks to our supporters – including Fairway Healthcare, Embark Learning, Salisbury Poultry, Jointing Tech, Safran, Midland Metro Alliance, and every individual who supported us – these children are given the best start as they head back to school this September. We are truly thankful to our donors for making such a huge impact on the children’s first day of school.”
In the year ending March 2024, more than 1.6m women in England and Wales aged 16 years and over were estimated to have been victims of domestic abuse.*** It is also found that 20% of all reported crime in the UK involves Violence Against Women and Girls.****
The Haven is more than a refuge provider; it offers women and children in need a range of support services including its helpline, safe accommodation, community outreach, and recovery services such as counselling and substance use support. On average, the charity supports 450 women and children per quarter***** and receives more than 2,600 helpline calls a month.******
The Haven Wolverhampton has now launched its Christmas Appeal, calling for winter warmer essentials for the comfort of the women and children it supports. Find out more at www.havenrefuge.org.uk/get-involved/christmas-at-the-haven/ or email give@havenrefuge.org.uk for more details.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, please call our free helpline on 08000 194 400.
About The Haven
Set up more than 50 years ago, The Haven Wolverhampton (The Haven), a Women’s Aid organisation, provides practical and emotional support services to women and children, living in and outside of its safe accommodation, who are affected by domestic abuse and homelessness.
The Haven helps survivors to live free from abuse, build resilience, improve their health, and create skills and experience needed to live independently.
Helpline (freephone and 24 hours): 08000 194 400