The fight for women’s equality and social justice has been a long one, and still continues today. A major part of this fight includes the mission to eliminate violence against women – a fight which Shakti Women’s Aid have been a part of for the last 30 years.

We support Black Minority Ethnic women who are experiencing and/or fleeing domestic violence. Many of our clients have ‘No Recourse to Public Funds’ (NRPF) – meaning because of their visa or residency status, have no access to housing or benefits, and are often not allowed to work. Increasingly, these women and children don’t have the right to access many public or voluntary agencies when in crisis – including Shakti Women’s Aid.

We are continually restricted in how we can support these clients as our funding does not allow us to help women with NRPF, meaning they have nowhere to turn to for basic & essential support – depriving them of food, shelter, and a safe space where they can be heard. Their options are to return to their abusive partner or live on the streets, forcing them and their children into a very dangerous and unpredictable life.

If we want to eradicate gender based violence, this must include all women, regardless of their immigration status. We believe that preventing these women from accessing services is a breach of their basic human right to be safe and live a life free from violence and fear.

Sarah, Ola, Romila & Rachael are going to climb Ben Nevis, and fly the ‘Shakti’ flag for these women and children – humans whose only crime is trying to survive.

Money will go towards campaigning and taking action to save the lives of these women and children. We would appreciate your support in trying to achieve this goal.