Society pledges support for Black Country Women’s Aid
Staff at the Black Country's largest building society have chosen to raise funds for a Sandwell-based charity that supports victims of abuse, violence and exploitation.
Donations collected by the West Bromwich Building Society over the next 12 months will be given to Black Country Women’s Aid to enhance its services for women, men and children throughout the West Midlands.
Founded 30 years ago, Black Country Women’s Aid helps more than 8,000 people every year to escape from violence, cope with trauma and rebuild their lives.
It offers refuge and community support for victims of domestic and sexual abuse, provides specialist counselling, works with children and young people who have suffered abuse and assists victims of modern slavery and international human trafficking.
The charity’s chief executive Sara Ward said: “Abuse comes in many forms and affects people of all ages and from all walks of life. Women are most commonly targeted; in fact one in four women in the UK will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime.
“We believe that no-one should have to live in fear of violence and abuse and we work tirelessly to ensure that victims get the best support possible. There is huge demand for our services, which is why we are delighted the West Brom has pledged fundraising assistance for the next year.
“Together we can offer a message of hope, that we are able to help individuals affected by abuse, both practically and emotionally, and that they don’t have to suffer in silence.”
The West Brom, which has 37 branches across the Black Country, Birmingham, Shropshire and mid-Wales and employs around 740 people. invites staff once a year to nominate and select a charity they would like to collectively fundraise for.
Previous partners have included Acorns Children’s Hospice, Teenage Cancer Trust and, most recently, the Kaleidoscope Plus Group, which received almost £30,000.
Group finance and operations director Ashraf Piranie said: “Supporting the community is integral to the West Brom and this comes across in the commitment and compassion shown by our people in raising money for our chosen charities.
“This year we are proud to support Black Country Women’s Aid and its provision of essential services to those who find themselves in desperate need for understanding and professional assistance.”
