The Dash Charity receives £40,000 from Nationwide for new initiative

A charity that helps victims of domestic abuse has been given £40,000 to introduce a new initiative in the area.

The Nationwide Building Society has given The Dash Charity (Domestic Abuse Stops Here) funding for its ‘A Safe Place to Be’ project, which aims to tackle homelessness as a result of domestic abuse in East Berkshire.

Based in Slough, Dash provides a range of specialist support services to women, men and children affected by domestic abuse across the Royal Borough, Slough and South Bucks.  

The charity applied for a grant from Nationwide, which runs a community grants programme of up to £50,000 ‘for local organisations with great housing solutions’.

As part of the project, Dash will employ a specialist housing independent domestic violence advocate to provide ‘tailored, timely and co-ordinated support’ to families facing homelessness through domestic abuse.

The advocate will work closely with the Royal Borough housing and homelessness teams and other voluntary and statutory agencies.

They will ensure families are supported to access safe accommodation, on a short and long- term basis, to help them break free from domestic abuse and lead healthy and independent lives.

Becky Spiller, head of sustainability at Dash, said: ‘We are delighted that Nationwide have chosen to support such an important project.

“Domestic abuse is a leading cause of homelessness, with victims often fleeing their homes in crisis and often having lost support networks and financial independence as a result of an abusive relationship.

“The grant from Nationwide will help us deliver vital interventions to some of the most vulnerable families in our area and give them the tools to secure a brighter future.”

Find out more about the charity at www.thedashcharity.org.uk

Anyone who is, or knows anyone who is, experiencing violence, abuse or controlling

behaviour from a partner, former partner or family member can call 01753 549865.

9865.