Cumbrians are being urged to help victims of domestic violence by donating toiletries, skincare and beauty products.
Regifting Beauty was launched by Carlisle cosmetic clinic VL Aesthetics last Christmas to support domestic violence service Freedom Project and is now back for its second year.
Clinic owner Vanessa Brown said that 2020 has been especially difficult for victims and survivors, and she wanted to bring the campaign back to even more people this time.
She said: “Last year’s campaign was extremely successful, with over £5,000-worth of products donated from people around Cumbria.
“We would like to double this to £10,000 this year – because it was such a success last year, we need to repeat it.
“2020 has been a tough year for a lot of people and this is something which we can do to give back to the local community, especially those who are in vulnerable situations.
“It is more important than ever for people to support other people and our community to stick together.”
Beauty products and toiletries are essential items that are out of reach for many people, and the Regifting Beauty scheme is a way of helping people who are struggling financially – often because they have fled their homes.
Freedom Project West Cumbria works with women and children who are victims of domestic abuse, as well as with perpetrators.
They have received an increase in calls and referrals this year, with many citing the lockdown as having a direct impact.
Charity manager Vicky Pike said: “In June, once the restrictions were eased, we saw a 56 per cent increase in victim referrals over the previous month.
“The lockdown has given perpetrators the perfect environment to abuse and it is now that victims are reaching out and asking for help.
“Victims have reported their calls, texts and emails have been monitored or their phones taken away completely, having no access to money and feeling very isolated and ‘trapped’.
“Any help we can give these victims, be it emotional support or toiletry packs is vital for them and their children being able to flee abuse and ease any of the financial pressures they find themselves in.”
If you want to support the campaign, there is a donation box at the VL Aesthetic clinic, Kingmoor Road, and at other locations at:
- Suzie Bou – Dalston
- Velvet 7 Hairdressers – Cecil Street, Carlisle
- Verve Hairdressers – Earl Street near the Courts
- Room 26 – Bank Street
- Lakeland – English Street
- The Yoga Studio – Treasury Court
The scheme will run until the end of January.
