Local charities unite with MP Wera Hobhouse to address violence against women and families

Representatives from DHI, VOICES and The Nelson Trust came together on Friday 9 January for a roundtable discussion with Bath and North East Somerset MP Wera Hobhouse to explore collaborative solutions to the growing crisis of violence against women and families.

The meeting highlighted the urgent need for coordinated, localised approaches to address complex and interconnected issues including trauma, poverty, housing insecurity, drug and alcohol misuse, and mental ill health. Participants emphasised that early intervention and joined-up working are critical to reducing harm and supporting long-term recovery.

“Local charities like ours play a vital role in providing tailored support, from housing to mental health and treatment programmes,” said Rosie Phillips, Chief Executive of DHI. “Local authority budgets continue to shrink, yet demand is increasing for charities that support the most vulnerable people in our communities.”

Stretched budgets and increasing competition from large national charities were identified as significant threats to the ability of local organisations to continue delivering grassroots support in the communities they know best.

“We are the ones with our sleeves rolled up, working directly with people in our communities,” said Karen, Chief Executive of VOICES. “We have the passion, expertise and trust to meet our clients’ needs, but we are under constant pressure as funding becomes increasingly insecure.”

The discussion also focused on the need to break down service silos, which often lead to inefficiencies and missed opportunities for early intervention. Attendees agreed that improved coordination and more flexible procurement models could help ensure resources are used effectively and that families receive holistic support.

“Too often, funding only becomes available once people reach crisis point,” said Helen Emmings, Strategic Partnership Manager at The Nelson Trust. “What’s missing is investment that recognises how early intervention prevents harm.”

Wera Hobhouse MP expressed her commitment to championing these issues in Parliament and acknowledged the vital role of local charities and their expertise in tackling violence against women and girls.

“Violence against women and girls is a national emergency, and organisations like DHI, VOICES and The Nelson Trust are on the frontline,” said Wera. “They deliver trauma-informed support that changes lives, yet they are being stretched to breaking point. If the Government is truly serious about tackling this crisis, it must commit to a joined-up approach that supports early intervention and keeps women and families safe.”

The group agreed to continue working together and to develop practical next steps for collaboration, including a follow-up meeting to refine proposals and identify opportunities for joint action.

Participants also included Emma, Head of Legal at VOICES; Rachel Barnes, Criminal Justice Services Manager at DHI; Amy Glover, Mental Health Practitioner at DHI; Donna Barnby, Acting Senior Supported Housing Manager, and Natasha Francis, Housing Support Worker at DHI’s Reach housing service.