The initiative, part of the Love Grace Handbag Appeal, was started by the family of Grace Millane, who was tragically murdered while travelling in New Zealand in 2018. It will be the first time the campaign has been launched in the southwest.
BCP Council’s Community Safety Partnership is collaborating with the Love Grace founders, BCHA (Bournemouth Churches Housing Association), and Dorset Working Women’s Project to collect and distribute the bags to female survivors via local women’s refuges.
Councillor Kieron Wilson, portfolio holder for housing and regulatory services, said: “As a White Ribbon accredited council that is committed to ending violence against women and girls, we are eager to support the Love Grace handbag campaign, which has positively impacted female victims of domestic abuse across the country.
“The bags will go to women in the BCP area who need them. Sometimes, if they have to flee or they are in crisis, they will have very little. These bags will provide essentials, a boost of confidence, and a reminder that they are cared about and truly matter.”
Those wishing to donate handbags or toiletries can do so at the following drop-off points:
- Poole Old Town Family Hub, Poole BH15 1QB: Monday to Friday, 9am to 4:30pm.
- Kinson Community Centre, Bournemouth BH10 7LH: Monday to Friday, 9am to 9pm; Saturday and Sunday, 9am to 3pm.
- Christchurch Library, Christchurch BH23 1AW: Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm; Saturday, 9am to 5pm
If you cannot get to a drop off point and wish to support the campaign you can purchase items from the Love Grace Amazon wish list.
David Sidwick, Dorset police and crime commissioner, said: “No one should live in fear of or experience domestic abuse.
“Working in partnership with the BCP Community Safety Partnership, I am committed to taking robust action against abusers, in changing attitudes and behaviours and supporting victims to ensure that everyone in our communities can live safe, happy, and healthy lives.”
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