A leading domestic abuse organisation has launched a new campaign highlighting the experience of women who leave abusive situations with nothing.

The new campaign is from Solace Women’s Aid, the leading domestic abuse charity in London. The aim is to raise funds for the thousands of women in the city who leave their abusive partners with no money, belongings, or place to go.

The prospect of leaving an abuser with nothing can discourage women from escaping their situation, prolonging their suffering and endangering their lives. Solace is raising money to make sure that these women can be supported properly when leaving their abusers. Even a small donation of £20 can provide essential items to abuse victims and their children, such as toiletries, a therapy session, or even a taxi to a safe place during a crisis.

Jane Jutsum, Director at Solace comments:

“We know that the increasing cost of living and the lasting impact of the pandemic has affected everyone, and that for many people this is a very difficult time, but that also means that for women and girls experiencing domestic abuse it has never been more difficult. We supported over 1,000 women and children in our refuges last year, many of whom arrived with only a handful of belongings, a donation of £20, could help provide them with food vouchers or toiletries or toys for their children.”

A woman is killed every three days in the UK by a current or ex-partner, and a further four women a week take their own lives as a result of the trauma of abuse. Solace supported nearly 30,000 women last year through a range of services, from their advice helpline to therapeutic support, rape crisis and safe accommodation.