Wolverhampton domestic abuse charity boosted by generous funding from Freemasons

The £60,000 grant will fund a Children and Young People’s Service Therapeutic Worker for two years, which ensures that the charity can continue to offer children and young people vital support.  

A spokeswoman for The Haven said: "The Haven Wolverhampton has seen first-hand the impact of abuse. 

"Stan was withdrawn, angry, and started wetting himself, Stacey struggled to manage her feelings and it was feared she was self-harming, Jacob mimicked his dad’s behaviour, was abusive to his mum, and set fire to his sister’s bedroom; and Josh was terrified of being in contact with any man.  

"Wolverhampton is in the top 10 per cent most deprived local authorities in England, with a third of children living in poverty. 

"This is worsened by financial abuse, seen in 95 per cent of domestic abuse cases, where perpetrators control finances and limit necessities.  As well as women, children and young people victims of domestic abuse are very disadvantaged."

The Children and Young People’s Service Therapeutic Worker helps children to heal from their trauma by providing a range of services and therapies.

These include tailored 121 therapies where the child or young person is at the heart at the session, developing activities based on their interests, ensuring their voices are heard.

Other services include group therapy sessions, health and wellbeing sessions, a range of activities such as homework club, crafts, play, celebration events, and trips so children can develop skills whilst engaging in positive activities with their peers.

There will also be activities to support bonding with their mums and siblings and healthy relationship workshops so children and young people develop a better understanding of healthy relationships.   

The grant from Staffordshire Freemasons comes through the Masonic Charitable Foundation, which is funded by Freemasons, their families and friends, from across England and Wales. 

Cheryl Scriven, senior services manager at The Haven Wolverhampton, said: “The funding from the Staffordshire Freemasons means we can continue to support children and young people domestic abuse victims. 

"Only four years ago were children officially recognised as victims, including if they witness such abuse, in the Domestic Abuse Act 2021. This is more than 30 years after The Haven Wolverhampton introduced our Children and Young People’s Service.  

“Our valued supporters such as the Staffordshire Freemasons ensures that we can support children to heal from trauma that has severe detrimental effects lasting well into adulthood. 

"Breaking the cycle of abuse sets children and young people up for a more positive future that’s free from abuse and the disadvantages that it brings.  We are truly grateful to Staffordshire Freemasons for supporting us.”  

John Lockley, head of Staffordshire Freemasons, said: “It’s incredibly rewarding for Staffordshire Freemasons to contribute to the West Midlands community by supporting The Haven Wolverhampton, and the children and young people within its services.

"Supporting young people who have experienced abuse and trauma is incredibly humbling, and we have no doubt that many children will benefit from our support.”