A BRADFORD-BASED domestic abuse and sexual violence charity has received a £10,000 donation to help survivors start a new life.

Staying Put will use the money from the Penny Appeal to go towards ‘home starter kits’.

The donation comes from Penny Appeal’s Phoenix Fund which aims to provide survivors of domestic abuse with emergency financial support to aid them in escaping abusive relationships.

A lack of access to funds is a huge barrier to people leaving abusive relationships, and recent figures show that almost 40% of all adults in the UK have experienced economically abusive behaviour from a partner.

Staying Put will use the grant to pay for beds, fridges and microwaves for those fleeing abuse, ensuring that they have a ‘starter kit’ for getting back on their feet.

This is the first time that the Penny Appeal has partnered with Staying Put.

Yasmin Khan, chief executive officer at Staying Put, said: “We are incredibly grateful to the Penny Appeal for its donation of £10,000 which will go towards helping survivors of domestic abuse set up their new home.

“People in abusive relationships have often been cut off from any income by their abusers, which can make people feel stuck, unable to leave the situation they are in. This money will pay for a bed, fridge and microwave, giving survivors a helping hand to setting up a new home.”

Charlene Edwards, head of UK programmes at the Penny Appeal, said: “As part of our Domestic Abuse Strategy 2020-23, Penny Appeal are committed to improving the lives of all those affected by domestic abuse, so women and children can live safely.

“Over the last year, due to Covid-19, victims of domestic abuse have been forced to co-exist with perpetrators. Our Phoenix Fund project was launched as a direct response to support victims flee abusive relationships and regain control of their lives. We are excited to be partnering with Staying Put in Bradford to deliver essential items to survivors in order to help them set up a new life away from abuse.”

Staying Put’s helpline is open from 9.30am-1pm, 1.30pm-4.30pm, Monday to Friday. If people need help, they should call 0808 2800 999.