In response to growing concerns and a 35% increase in women seeking safety for themselves and their children, Jersey Women’s Refuge (JWR) quickly opened a second safe house for the 2nd and 3rd quarters of 2020.
Overall, admissions to the refuge increased by 26% in 2020 compared to 2019. JWR also observed a near 50% increase in one-off callers reaching out via the helpline.
In 2020, a total of 365 women and 49 children accessed the safe house, helpline, outreach or group work, all vital services provided by JWR to protect women and their children, and to reduce incidents of domestic violence. These numbers are disturbingly in line with the national domestic abuse helpline figure of a 66% increase in calls during the pandemic.
“As we navigate through these unprecedented times, we would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who continues to support our vital work,” commented Ben Robins, the Chair of Jersey Women’s Refuge. “We are very grateful for the essential funding we receive from the Government and the ongoing understanding of individuals and organisations, whose charitable giving ensures we can deliver independent professional round the clock support to the women and their families who face such difficult and frightening situations. Sadly, the demands on our services are growing every year with the annual budget now in excess of half a million, so we continue to seek people’s help and support to cover JWR’s costs.”
“Ensuring we are here for local families during some of the worst moments of their lives is critical. Now, with Covid 19, many are facing increased anxiety and pressure due to the isolation which can make it even more difficult to reach out for help. As a result, our services are needed now more than ever”, explained Marine Oliveira, JWR’s Manager.
“As the only independent domestic abuse charity in the Island offering 24/7 support, outreach services, helpline and group work, we simply could not function without the assistance we have received from the Government, and the in kind and financial donations from the many very generous individuals, church groups, parishes, trusts and local businesses.”
With the appointment of a UK Domestic Abuse Commissioner, Nicole Jacobs, the team at JWR is encouraged with the focus given to the domestic abuse agenda nationally, and looks forward to Jersey passing relevant legislation in the near future.
Ben concluded by highlighting that through campaigns such as #RefuseAbuse, funded by local businesses, “We have been able to raise awareness and engage with the local community. In 2021, we look forward to continuing to work with our regular and new supporters, both individuals and businesses. We also hope to be reaching out to more companies, who might be currently contemplating their Economic, Social and Governance/Corporate Social Responsibility goals, in the hope that JWR and the women and children it serves will become a priority for them.”
JWR’s supporters are critical to its future and some have shared their views on the rewards of supporting Jersey Women’s Refuge:
Le Masurier
“It is a pleasure to continue to support this vital local charity” explained Brian McCarthy, Managing Director, Le Masurier. “Now more than ever, as a community we need to ensure we are looking out for each other and supporting where we can. We are delighted the #RefuseAbuse campaign has helped JWR reach out to anyone who might need support.”
Integritas Wealth Partners
“We are delighted JWR is one of our chosen charities for 2021” explained Ed Loader, Integritas Wealth Partners. “Through a variety of salary match and staff activity, we look forward to raising funds to support the ongoing #RefuseAbuse campaign for JWR with an innovative partnership with JCG Chamber Choir. We understand this talented group of students are already rehearsing a powerful performance, and we look forward to sharing more on this later in the year.”
Aztec Group
“Aztec Group is committed to supporting local charities and it has been a privilege for us to contribute to the vital work of JWR, as part of our ongoing commitment to the community,” said Kim Anthony, Head of Business Improvement, Aztec Group.
MBM Services
“We are proud to support the Jersey Women’s Refuge #RefuseAbuse campaign,” explained Mark Bingle, MD, MBM Services Ltd. “Tragically, now more than ever this message needs to be spread far and wide so we are humbled to play our part in doing just that.”
Ardent Chambers
“We realise the importance of increasing understanding about domestic abuse, so are once again delighted to continue our support of JWR by funding the ‘Loves me, Loves me not’ Radio and Social Media campaign” commented Howard Sharp, QC, Co Founder, Ardent Chambers.
First Choice Groceries
‘The whole team at First Choice Groceries are truly engaged with our charities and we are very pleased that we can support the team at Jersey Women’s Refuge and those who are under the care of the organisation, commented Jake Shaw, Director, First Choice Groceries. We feel drawn to this cause and are always looking for new ways to support them such as sending flowers to the mums this Mother’s Day. We had previously donated funds and groceries to the charity and we are committed to continue this trend in the future.”
To learn more about the work of Jersey Women’s Refuge, click here or email.
