Domestic abuse charity sees 35% rise in referrals

A domestic abuse charity said it has seen a 35% increase in referrals for its service in the past five years.

West Mercia Women's Aid said in 2025 it helped 4,142 women and 407 children, and reached more than 10,000 young people across Shropshire, Herefordshire and Worcestershire through its youth prevention programme.

The charity's chief executive, Sue Coleman, said behind every statistic was "a woman or child whose home was not a safe place".

"Some come to us needing information and advice, some arrive needing shelter with only what they can carry," she said, adding: "Many simply need someone to listen, believe them and help them understand that they are not alone."

Coleman said the charity responded to more than 13,760 contacts through its helpline and website services in 2025, with its website seeing an 18% increase in new users seeking information and support.

The charity said while referrals had risen, it was providing happier outcomes for women and investment in services was crucial.

Last year, it joined forces with another charity to provide one-to-one personalised support, as well give victims access to safe accommodation and refuge.

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