Supporting women survivors: Ella’s

Ella’s provides vital support for highly traumatised and marginalised female survivors of trafficking, abuse, and exploitation, many of whom are seeking refuge in emergency and temporary accommodation. With 70% of the women having experienced multiple forms of abuse – ranging from domestic violence to forced marriage, honour-based violence, and female genital mutilation – Ella’s is a safe haven for those who have suffered unimaginable hardship.

The women at Ella’s face numerous challenges. 84% have been diagnosed with mental health issues, including PTSD and depression, while 88% are migrant women, with many being refugees or asylum seekers. A significant portion of the women do not speak English and have had limited or no formal education. With some also caring for dependent children, their circumstances are even more complex. Separated from family and community, they often feel isolated and alone, with little confidence, resilience, or basic life skills to live safely or pursue legitimate work.

We are proud to support Ella’s by funding their crisis fund, which provides direct financial aid to these women, enabling them to purchase essentials, cover unexpected expenses, and manage financial difficulties. For many, the crisis fund offers a lifeline – helping them to secure what they need in the short term and giving them the support to rebuild their lives.

Ella’s said:

“With your help, we have been able to support survivors living in our safe house accommodation with financial emergencies over the last six months, and ensure they have been able to afford food, clothing and toiletries as well as support with the immigration appeals and paperwork. This has been hugely positive for the marginalised women we work with as it has enabled them to focus on their well-being, improving their mental health and keeping safe after the traumatic experiences of trafficking and abuse. We are hugely grateful for your grant.”

They also shared a few anonymous case studies:

“R. is a survivor of modern slavery and honour-based violence who moved into one of our safe houses straight from a hospital. She needed basic supplies and food as she had no recourse to public funds. These grants helped her through a difficult period of transition, and supported her to be able to obtain food, clothing and other essentials. She came to Ella’s with nothing, her ex-husband and abuser would not allow her to retrieve any belongings, so this financial support was vital in helping her get back on her feet. She has now moved into independent council accommodation and is so much happier. She is recovering and being support by our resettlement programme.”

“F. is a survivor and a sole carer for her disabled son. The crisis fund supported her to pay for the internet which is vital for accessing important resources, information and booking systems necessary for her to care for her child. She is working towards being granted stable immigration status and we continue to support her. She is steadily building a safe and stable future for herself and her son.”

Our contribution to this fund ensures that these women can access immediate assistance, helping them take the first steps toward a safer, more independent future.

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Every penny donated goes directly into helping those in need. 🙏💙