Hands Off Abuse: Delegates Rally to Support Domestic Violence Victims with Handbag Drive
At a moving moment during the Violence Against Women and Girls conference in Tidworth, Wiltshire, delegates chipped in for a brilliant cause. They collected around 50 handbags packed with toiletries for women escaping domestic abuse. The effort was part of the Love Grace appeal, held on Monday, 4th December, and hosted by Wiltshire Police.
Love Grace Appeal: Honouring Grace Millane with Purpose
The 1 Grace appeal was born to remember Grace Millane, murdered in New Zealand in December 2018. It breathes new life into pre-loved handbags by stuffing them with everyday essentials for vulnerable women and girls. Each bag, tagged with ‘Love Grace,’ pays tribute to Grace’s passion for handbags.
Handbags Delivered to Frontline Charities Supporting Abuse Survivors
Wiltshire Police’s Connect Women’s Network handed over the donations to three vital charities:
- Swindon Domestic Support Service
- Nelson Trust
- Swindon Sisters Alliance
These groups are on the frontline, offering support to women overcoming domestic abuse.
Detective Inspector Penny Andrews, Vice Chair of the Wiltshire Police Connect Leadership Team, hailed the donation as a “glimmer of hope and comfort” for women in desperate situations. “It’s a fantastic way to give unused bags a new purpose and back vulnerable women in our communities,” she added.
Charities Praise Impact of the Love Grace Handbags
Emma King, Founder of Swindon Sisters Alliance, thanked donors, highlighting how Grace’s legacy continues to inspire and support women in need.
Jo Eamey, CEO of Swindon Women’s Aid, shared how these special bags mean the world to women forced to flee with just the clothes they’re wearing. “Children in refuge are already picking Christmas presents for their mums from the contents,” she revealed.
Veronica Cooper, Partnerships Manager at the Nelson Trust, expressed deep gratitude, saying these handbags will make a real difference at their Women’s Centre.
Keep the Momentum: Support the Love Grace Appeal
The conference and handbag giveaway highlight ongoing efforts to aid domestic abuse victims. They also keep Grace Millane’s memory alive through acts of kindness.
Want to help? Visit the Love Grace appeal website to learn how you can donate or get involved. Partner charities also welcome support from the community.
