Charity says thanks for your generosity

Glossop-based Crossroads Derbyshire wants to say a huge thank you to the people of the High Peak for their amazing support and generosity this year.

The charity supports families who have experienced domestic abuse and this year it has been particularly challenging with the team working harder than ever to support people at risk throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.

Back in the spring when the country first went into lockdown, the numbers of people needing support almost doubled.

The charity was able to remain open throughout and was delighted that appeals for help within the local community led to donations of food, IT equipment, games consoles, money for activities and crafts, furniture and even a Christmas tree.

Vicky Bunnage, Crossroads Derbyshire’s chief executive officer, said: “This has been a year like no other for our charity.

“Our staff and volunteers responded within hours to change the way they worked to help keep everyone safe and make sure that we were able to continue to support victims of abuse.

“The risks to victims of abuse have been greater than ever.

“I would like to thank our staff and volunteers for their exceptional efforts this year to cope with such a demanding situation.

“We are so grateful to the local people, churches, clubs, businesses and more, who have kept us in their thoughts throughout the year.

“We are also very proud to have partnered with other local charities who support families in need - Glossopdale Foodbank, the Furniture Project, PC Refurb, Cascade Baby Bundles, The Bureau, Glossop Art Project and many more.”

Vicky added: “The local community has been fantastic throughout.

“We are overwhelmed by the positive response to have come out of such adversity. Thank you all.”

Crossroads Derbyshire, formerly High Peak Women’s Aid, has been supporting families to escape abuse in the High Peak since 1979.

It provides an emergency refuge and support in the community, working with women, men and children across the High Peak and Derbyshire Dales.

The charity will remain open throughout the Christmas period.

Anyone needing help and support around domestic abuse should call the Derbyshire Domestic Abuse helpline on 08000 198 668.

To make a donation to support the work of Crossroads Derbyshire, visit www.crossroadsderbyshire.org.

Main image:

HELP: Meg and Belle who raised £600 from raffle ticket sales and collected Christmas gifts.