30th November 2007, 07/420
Women's Refuge nominated for award
West Lancashire Women's Refuge has been nominated for the
Queen's Awards for Voluntary Service 2008, which recognises unsung
heroes.
This fantastic news was revealed at the group's recent AGM
highlighting domestic violence and it is testimony to the
outstanding work that goes on at the centre.
They have been short-listed for a number of reasons including that
they have generated a high level of goodwill and respect amongst
those they serve and have a proven track record of active
involvement in the community as well as meeting a particular
need.
The revelation that they are in the running for this prestigious
award has been welcomed by the West Lancashire Community Safety
Partnership.
Domestic violence is one of the West Lancashire Community Safety
Partnership's key priorities and they work closely with the Women's
Refuge to support them in providing a vital service for sufferers
as well as shelter if the victim needs a safe home.
Cllr David Westley, Portfolio Holder for Community Safety, said:
"I'm delighted that the women's Refuge has been nominated for such
a prestigious accolade. They are certainly our unsung heroes and
work tirelessly to help women and children affected by domestic
violence."
The awards will be announced in June 2008.
Eleanor Maddocks, Chief Officer at the West Lancashire Women's
Refuge, said: "When I opened the letter to say that we had been
short-listed I was shocked. I'd not expected anything like this at
all. It's a prestigious award and the fact they we have been
nominated is a privilege in itself. For all the staff and
volunteers it's a real salute to the work that they do and I'd just
like to say a big thank you to them all."
Bill Taylor, Chair of the West Lancashire Community Safety
Partnership, added: "We take domestic violence extremely seriously
and the Women's Refuge plays a vital role within the community in
providing a much-needed service to sufferers. I'm so pleased that
their work has been recognised because they are one of our main
partners on the Domestic Violence Forum and we will continue to
support them in all that they do."
Anyone who is suffering abuse and wants support can contact West
Lancashire Women's Refuge on 0808 100 3062 or Women's Aid National
on 0808 2000 247. Abusive partners can contact the Respect helpline
on 0845 122 8609.
Related information
> Council
news
> Community
safety
> Domestic
violence