Charity needs cash to save support jobs for victims

A VITAL role in supporting victims of domestic violence could be lost if funding cannot be found. The important position is held by Louise Choppy, who helps the most vulnerable people in our community. Economic recession has badly affected charities and B

A VITAL role in supporting victims of domestic violence could be lost if funding cannot be found.

The important position is held by Louise Choppy, who helps the most vulnerable people in our community.

Economic recession has badly affected charities and Barking and Dagenham Victim Support fear they will lose her post without more money coming in.

Domestic violence is the area's highest volume crime - costing the borough around �85million a year.

Manager of victim support, Shelley Hart said: "We deal with all victims regardless of age, sex, race or religion.

"We support male victims and children too. Domestic violence against children is sadly on the increase in this borough.

"If we do not secure good funding we could lose Louise's position.

"She has dealt with around 1,000 domestic violence cases since August last year."

Barking and Dagenham victim support help tackle low to medium level domestic violence with high level cases handled by advocates at the council.

However they provide a crucial service, treating the problem at its roots and preventing violent actions from escalating.

But the charity based in St George's Road, Dagenham, is in desperate need of funds.

Last Thursday (April 2) Superintendent Dave Reed presented a cheque for �5,000 to Shelley, who fears that without vital aid from the police and other donations the charity cannot afford a domestic violence officer.

Shelley said: "I'm delighted with the money. It will go towards keeping Louise in her post.

"We want to be there to provide the kind of support victims need when they find themselves in an impossible situation."

If you would like to make a donation to victim support, call Shelley on 020 8595 4455.