Cygnet Law has launched a shoe box appeal to coincide with the first anniversary of the UK’s first specialist safe house for older victims of domestic violence, Eva Women’s Aid’s 45+ Safe House
To mark the milestone, the Redcar-based law firm is creating arrival packages for the charity’s clients, which contain hygiene products and toiletries. Cygnet’s offices on West Dyke Road is also acting as a donation point for any individuals and businesses in the town who wish to contribute.
The Safe House is the only domestic violence refuge in the UK that is specifically aimed at women over the age of 45, and offers temporary housing for up to four women at a time.
Cygnet already works closely with Eva Women’s Aid to offer the charity’s users free legal advice sessions on domestic violence, contact and separation issues, and other family legal matters.
Gemma Brooks, an associate solicitor and member of Resolution First for Family Law, specialises in cases involving domestic violence, said: “Cygnet Law is proud to support a local charity that provides invaluable support to help women and children escape abuse.
“A great deal of the women and children who come to Eva’s House who come to EVA Women’s Aid for help, come with little more than the clothes on their back, and, as they’re often coming from controlling relationships, they don’t have access to finance.
“All toiletries, including shampoo and conditioner, sanitary products and deodorants make welcome contributions and can be dropped off at our offices on West Dyke Road.”
Richinda Taylor, Chief Executive Officer at EVA Women’s Aid, said: “We are very grateful to have Cygnet’s support. As Gemma says, often women fleeing abuse have nothing so we always give them a toiletries package when they arrive, plus underwear and pyjamas, and some basic food items. We constantly need these replacing so the shoe-box appeal will be a great help to EVA Women’s Aid”