Charity creates school kits for abuse victims' kids

A charity has put together 60 backpacks filled with back-to-school essentials for children who have been affected by domestic abuse.

The Haven Wolverhampton said its scheme provided items such as water bottles, stationery and an Asda voucher towards buying uniforms.

It was made possible following a recent appeal that saw donations pour in from the community and local businesses.

"We can provide every school-age child who is currently living in our safe accommodation with what they need to start school feeling more confident, and like many of their peers, with the necessities ready to learn," Anna Pendlebury, the charity's head of fundraising and engagement.

"Thank you for thinking of the children. They are happy and will have the right stationery for the last year in primary school," said one of the mothers who received a bag.

The appeal was set up to relieve the financial pressures on mothers who have been subjected to domestic abuse and are often left with very little or nothing to survive on.

Pendlebury added: "For many women and children, fleeing domestic abuse means that they leave everything behind for their safety.

"Not only that – many have also been subjected to financial or economic abuse. Having very little can cause a lot of pressure for mothers when children need essentials for school.

"For child victims, they have already experienced so much trauma – and so not having what they need for school can cause them additional distress and leave them at further disadvantage."

In the year between April 2024 and March 2025, the charity had 1,800 people who either came to the organisation themselves or were referred to it by other agencies.

A contract from the council, which emerged in May, includes the return of the authority's Sanctuary Scheme that is designed to improve security measures available to victims, including CCTV and fireproof letterboxes.

The Haven has been recommissioned to provide safe accommodation and community support services under a three-year minimum contract.

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