Funding Shortfall Threatens Closure of Domestic Abuse Charity

The DAWN Project, a domestic abuse charity operated by Worcester Community Trust within the city, has stated its inability to assist new survivors of abuse due to insufficient funding. The organization indicated a requirement of £225,000 to sustain its complimentary services, following its announcement that it lacks assured funding for the upcoming year. The charity reported a deadline of March to secure the necessary funds to maintain its operations. Caitlin Parmar, representing the project, warned that failure to do so could lead to its closure, resulting in “one less local charity” available for individuals experiencing domestic abuse. Since 2020, the organization has provided assistance to over 1,000 adults and 1,500 children in south Worcestershire, addressing various issues such as court cases and counselling. Ms Parmar emphasized the importance of local access to community-level support, despite the availability of national charities and helplines. She stated, “Currently 22,000 people in Worcestershire alone are experiencing domestic abuse.” Ms Parmar further added, “It is really important that there are services out there for when people are ready to seek support from whomever they want to.” She concluded by noting, “With services like ourselves who may have to close our doors it leads to less support out there.”