‘I didn’t know support like this existed.’
These are the words of a woman living in refuge, having fled from an abusive relationship, ‘If I’d known, I probably would have left years ago.’ She adds.
For many women and children experiencing domestic abuse, finding the help they need is lifesaving and SOLACE, a leading specialist domestic abuse charity have launched their first film highlighting the work they do supporting women and children.
Jane Jutsum, Director says ‘This is a challenging time for everyone, and whilst there is a growing awareness that women and girls are at risk of domestic abuse, sexual violence, and harassment on the streets and in their homes, many people are still not aware of the services that are out there to help. We’re very proud of Solace and this film shows the impact of our work and the courage of the women we work with.’
The film features staff and also a number of survivors talking about how they came to Solace and how they are supported. Jutsum says, ‘Of course we want to showcase the vital work that we do, but more than that we want to show women experiencing abuse that there is a happy healthy future for them free from abuse, and that support is there for them if they need it.’
Solace provide a wide range of services including a free, confidential advice line, rape crisis, accommodation services, therapeutic services, support for women with multiple disadvantages as well as working with young people to educate and inform and raise awareness.
Judith Banjoko, Solace Interim CEO adds, ‘The demand for our services has never been so high, and the pandemic has had a huge impact on everyone – staff and service users, since March 2020 we’ve supported more than 50,000 women and girls and at times we saw calls to our advice line more than double. We hope this film captures the spirit of Solace and the importance of the work that we do.’
Watch our full charity film here:
*Trigger Warning* Some of these stories may be upsetting.
Creative Team:
Production Company: Roll Nine
Director of Photography: Joyce Nicholls
Second Camera Operator: Alex Janaszewski
Editor: Emma Nathan
Producer & Director: Kirsty Malcolm
For more information or to speak with a spokeswoman contact media@solacewomensaid.org
Or to talk to one of the fundraising team, contact fundraising@solacewomensaid.org