Funding for Black Country Women’s Aid announced as Sandwell marks International Women’s Day 

International Women’s Day is a day to celebrate women’s rights and the achievements by women throughout history and across nations, but it’s also a day to reflect on the state of gender equality and to call out the many challenges that women and girls still face. International Women's Day’s campaign theme for 2023 is #EmbraceEquity

Sandwell Council recently awarded a five year contract worth over £2m to BCWA to deliver safe accommodation and support services for victims of domestic abuse.

Longer term funding will provide some stability and assurance to the continuation of these services which offer a safe place for survivors and their children fleeing domestic abuse. One in four women in England and Wales will experience domestic abuse in her lifetime and two women a week are killed by a current or former partner in England and Wales. Women who experience domestic abuse are also twice as likely to experience depression and 40% of homeless women state domestic abuse as a contributory factor to their homelessness.

Councillor Kerrie Carmichael, Leader of Sandwell Council, said:

“Domestic abuse is unacceptable and anyone suffering from this should know that this is not their fault and that help is available 24/7 at any time of year. We are delighted to be partnering with Black Country Women’s Aid to provide this vital service to those experiencing domestic abuse. If domestic abuse is happening to you, it’s important that that you tell someone – you don’t have to wait for an emergency situation to find help.”

Sara Ward, CEO of BCWA, added:

“Black Country Women’s Aid is really honoured and immensely proud be the Sandwell delivery partner for domestic abuse refuge services. We look forward to this continuing partnership to improve lives for victims of violence and abuse.”

Useful contacts:

• Black Country Women’s Aid can provide support to women and men experiencing domestic abuse. They provide a full range of services including access to specialist domestic abuse refuge accommodation and access to a range of specialist domestic abuse advice and support. You can contact them 24 hours a day on 0121 552 6448. Or contact BCWA via webchat and via WhatsApp on 07384 466181.
• Specialist support is available for men and boys who have experienced domestic abuse, rape and sexual abuse. Ask Marc provides confidential practical and emotional support. This includes one-to-one and telephone support; access to counselling; help to report issues to the police; support at court; and support groups. Contact Ask Marc by phone (0121 289 6402) email info@askmarc.org.uk or visit the Ask Marc website for more information.
• Birmingham LGBT Centre can also provide a range of support services for LGBT victims.  0121 643 0821 or visit the Birmingham LGBT Centre website
• Sandwell Council also provides support to access safe accommodation for victims and their children who may find themselves at risk of homeless due to domestic abuse. They can be contacted on 0121 368 1166 or visit the council’s homeless webpage for more information.