Lockdown as a result of COVID-19 has seen a surge in domestic violence across the UK. Lockdown has impacted us all in ways that we couldn't imagine, however for those living with an abusive partner or family member, the effect can be life threatening - the home feels like a prison cell. As it has been ever harder to access support networks such as friends and family, for victims of abuse it can feel like there is no way out. 

We feel we need to help out as much as we can, and we need to do so urgently! The more we choose to not talk about domestic violence, the more we shy away from the issue and the additional challenges abuse victims face as a result of Covid-19, such as less access to support networks, financial hardship and homelessness.

So on August 27th 2020, we will embark on an epic adventure which we have named "Steps Against Abuse", whereby we will walk over 340km (211 miles) by foot, starting from Crawley heading up along the coast to Margate and eventually finishing in Stratford, London - all in an effort to raise crucial funds for Women's Aid. We are aiming to complete this walk within 9 days (so on average, walking the distance of just under a marathon a day). Check out the route in our image gallery!

Women's Aid are a brilliant charity who support abuse victims by providing almost 300 local life saving services to women and children including victim live chat functions as well as expert research, education, online resources and raise public awareness.   

Below are some statistics that highlight the urgent appeal for funding to support Women's Aid and the services that they offer.

• The start of lockdown saw a 42% increase in users visiting the Women's Aid live chat site
• May 2020 recorded a 66% increase in calls to the National Domestic Helpline
• Met police recorded 17,257 domestic abuse incidents (9th March - 19th April 2020)
• January 3rd - 3rd July 2020, at least 61 women were killed by a man/whereby a man is the main suspect 
• Domestic abuse affects 1 in 4 women in their lifetime

Many women and children have lived in fear during lockdown, experiencing daily horror and abuse from family members, in ways which we cannot even begin to fathom.

We endeavour to raise as many funds possible and spread awareness about domestic abuse and the impact it is having on women and children across the country. Each and every donation is truly appreciated.

This will be a challenge for us however we are determined to support of Women's Aid and their mission to build a future where domestic abuse is not tolerated. 

Thank you for taking the time to read about our event!

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Thank you for your support!