Continuing support for women affected by domestic abuse

A support group for women affected by domestic abuse is launching a new 12-week programme in Maidenhead on 18 November. The Freedom Programme is provided by local, trained facilitators from the Royal Borough.

The Freedom Programme is a 12-week rolling programme with no waiting list. This means women can join at any time and the benefits are the same as long as they complete a full 12 weeks. The programme is open to any women who wish to learn more about the reality of domestic abuse with others who have had similar experiences.

Cllr Colin Rayner, cabinet member with responsibility for community safety, said: "Domestic abuse affects the victim's life in many ways - psychologically, emotionally and physically. The Freedom Programme allows women to explore these feelings and experiences in a safe and blame-free environment.

"We know that women who attend the programme often form strong friendships and this enables them to support each other once the programme is finished. I am pleased that the council is able to support this much-needed programme."

Sophie Wing-King, Berkshire East domestic abuse co-ordinator, said: "The Freedom Programme has been running locally for a number of years and I'm pleased that we can continue to offer this support. The group helps women feel stronger and gain self esteem and confidence in order to improve their and their children's lives."

The group runs on a Wednesday lunch time in Maidenhead, and on a Monday morning in Langley. For more information, contact Bev on 07732 695125 for the Maidenhead programme, or Becky on 01753 549865 for the Langley programme.