International Women's Day 2021 

Women’s Aid in Leicestershire, like most other charities has experienced a very challenging year due to the Covid Pandemic with all five Leicestershire Refuges close to capacity most of the time.  

In March 2020, all domestic abuse charities sounded the alarm. From the beginning of the nationwide COVID-19 lockdown, their helplines experienced a sharp rise in calls from victim-survivors, and saw early evidence of domestic abuse cases escalating, featuring high levels of physical violence and coercive control. Domestic homicides more than doubled in the first three weeks of lockdown. The UK Government have recognised the increased problem by allowing travel to escape Domestic Violence.

In recent years Women’s Aid Leicestershire have held an appeal on 8th March to celebrate International Women’s Day where we have encouraged supporters, local organisations, and business to hold Coffee Mornings to raise vital funds. Sadly in 2021 this will not be possible.

Our Coffee Morning Appeal has raised very significant income which has been used to support women, children and men who have experienced Domestic Violence in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. This year we must think of another way to raise money which is more vital than ever.

The three Lockdowns have led to an escalation of Domestic Violence with an increased demand for our services. We hope that people can be imaginative and hold Virtual Online Coffee Mornings or Evening Online Pizza Parties, collecting donations from friends, family and colleagues.

We are also simply asking for donations; many people are saving money by not travelling and not visiting coffee shops and restaurants currently. It would be wonderful if some of these savings could be donated to help women, children and men, who desperately need the help and support of Women’s Aid in Leicestershire.

Donations can be by cheque and posted to PO Box 26, Leicester, LE1 1AA   

Donate quickly and easily by using our Donate Now button and using a debit or credit card. 

If you can help with donations for our refuges or in any other way, please contact Toni Bentley to arrange collection [email protected]