Boston business makes donation to local domestic abuse cause amid rise in demand for services

The London Road Bakery recently presented £800 to SoLDAS (the South Lincolnshire Domestic Abuse Service, formally Boston Women’s Aid), money raised through the Government’s 5p carrier bag tax.

The charity was chosen by customers from a shortlist of four put together by staff who had been asked by owner Jacqui Dales to consider causes that were helping local people, particularly during the covid-19 crisis.

SolDAS operations manager Sarah Smith, said: “One direct effect of covid-19 has been a sharp spike in the number of reports of domestic violence and abuse, resulting in high numbers of referrals for refuge provision.

“Whilst Boston Women’s Aid normally receives donations from individuals and groups that are sufficient to supply the needs of families in refuge – food, toiletries, nappies, feminine care, household items, clothes – this ceased due to lockdown.

“Families fleeing abuse arrive often with just the clothes they are wearing, and no access to funds; it then takes four weeks at least before Universal Credit payments start, so unless the charity can provide everything the family needs they cannot live.”

She described the charity’s response to the pandemic as ‘dramatic and fast’, explaining the team shifted focus to handle an increase in calls for help and advice, extra pressure on refuge places, and ‘much higher’ levels of child trauma seen in these families.

“This wonderful donation of £800 will help us provide more support for families in refuge, helping rebuild their lives and regaining trust and confidence during their recovery,” she continued. “Without the support of local businesses and people we could not give this help.”

For more of SoLDAS, visit www.bostonwomensaid.org.uk/