Report reveals Women's Centre Cornwall supported 382 women in past year
It's as the charity are hosting an International Women's Day event this evening
A charity supporting victims of domestic or sexual abuse in Cornwall reveal they've supported 382 women in the past year, in their new impact report.
The Women's Centre Cornwall, a leading organisation committed to supporting women and girls with experience of sexual and domestic abuse in Cornwall, has proudly announced the publication of its report for the year 2022/2023.
It highlights the charity’s remarkable achievements and the positive changes it has made to the lives of those it supports, extending beyond those who approach the centre directly.
The Centre handled 800 calls from women and girls seeking immediate assistance and providing essential support to 382 women through its specialist report service.
They also run several initiatives to reach out to women with specific needs, including those with learning disabilities and/or neurodivergence, aiding their healing journey after abuse.
Jackie May, CEO, said: “This year has been monumental for The Women’s Centre Cornwall. We have grown, evolved, and adapted in increasingly challenging circumstances. Statistics and reports can never truly reflect the impact of the work that takes place within this organisation.
"It is measured often in the moments of connection between women, the trust built and relationships that are developed. It is reflected in the first time women speak their truth and the sparks of joy in their lives as they slowly but surely return to their power.”
In the last year, the Centre’s Assertive Outreach project has also played a crucial role in aiding 145 women facing serious barriers such as homelessness, involvement in the sex industry, and substance use. Alongside this, through the Open Service, The Women's Centre Cornwall extended its support to 334 women on probation, reinforcing its commitment to providing comprehensive assistance beyond geographical boundaries.
57% of women of women in prison report having been survivors of domestic violence.1 In collaboration with HMP Eastwood Park Prison, The Women's Centre Cornwall provided support to 72 women in prison who have experienced sexual and domestic abuse, addressing their unique needs and challenges.
National statistics reveal the crucial need for support services. 1 in 4 women have experienced domestic abuse by an ex or current partner in their adult lives and 25% of women have been raped or sexually assaulted in their lifetime - this amounts to a staggering 6.54 million women nationwide.2 Perhaps unsurprising then, that the centre has seen a 400% increase in members of its online Campfire community, for women living with the impact of any form of child sexual abuse, domestic abuse, harassment, rape and sexual violence.
Jackie May continues: “Words cannot do justice to how proud we feel of the women who form the Women’s Centre Cornwall community. These women show up to stand alongside and take care of one another amidst the devastation caused by sexual violence and domestic abuse. Together we look together in the same direction and work for change, even in the most difficult moments. We are fully committed to keeping women and girls at the heart of everything we do. We know their voices, lived experience and aspirations are central to how we will continue to grow and evolve.”
As well as being informed by the voices of women within the groups they support, 83% of women within The Women's Centre staff and volunteer team have lived experience of sexual violence, domestic abuse and the criminal justice system – and some have previously accessed the Centre's support services themselves.
The Women's Centre Cornwall continues to provide crucial support and resources to women and girls experiencing the devastating effects of sexual and domestic abuse.
You can find more about the charity on their website.
An event will be held, hosted by the Centre, at Bodmin Community Library at 6pm this evening for International Women's Day.