BCU supporting Birmingham and Solihull Women’s Aid this Christmas

Birmingham City University will be raising money for Birmingham and Solihull Women’s Aid (BSWA) this year as part of its annual Christmas fundraising programme.

Our Christmas fundraising usually takes place during the yearly Carols Service. However, as we cannot be together in person this year, the event will be replaced by a special virtual Christmas Carols Service.

Attendance is free, please register >>here<< Everyone is welcome so please share!

BSWA is one of University’s chosen charities and the funds we raise will go towards helping to protect women and children affected by violence and abuse.

This year has been particularly difficult for vulnerable women and children. We have seen a dramatic increase in the need for support services of charities like BSWA during the lock-down and restrictions period.

It is, therefore, more important than ever to support women in need so please give generously.

Birmingham & Solihull Women’s Aid is a women’s organisation, which for over 40 years has listened to, believed and supported thousands of women and children across Birmingham and Solihull to live free from fear and violence.

Any amount will make a difference, here’s what your donation can
change:

• £5 could pay for a travel pass for a woman to make an appointment with a support worker across the city from her accommodation
• £10 will pay for an overnight kit of toiletries for a woman entering refuge
• £25 could contribute towards interpreting costs for a woman who doesn’t speak English as a first language

What is the BSWA’s mission?

• They advocate for the rights of ALL women 
• Support women and children affected by domestic violence and abuse
• Educate, train and inspire action
• Campaign for change
  

What do they do?

• They operate a confidential helpline (0808 800 0028) and a confidential webchat service
• Provide advice and support via the drop-in centres
• Provide safe, emergency refuge accommodation
• Offer practical housing support and advice
  
• Provide community outreach support
• Support women dealing with criminal and civil legal proceedings
• Provide family support
• Deliver training to professionals
• Work with young people to raise awareness

I want to help. What else can I do?

•  Get creative! The easiest and most impactful way you can help is by doing something fun, engaging and creative to raise the money for BSWA. So run a marathon or host a (virtual) themed party. Got a super skill like a foreign language or knitting? Organise a special teaching session for your friends and donate together. If you are looking for inspiration or for more information contact fundraising@bswaid.org

• Volunteer –BSWA Community Champions volunteers are helping us to affect change across Birmingham and Solihull and beyond. Register your interest by emailing fundraising@bswaid.org

• Leave a gift in your will - Gifts in wills are very special donations. Please contact Anna Fawcett, Fundraising Manager anna.fawcett@bswaid.org to find out more.