SafeNet Domestic Abuse Services has celebrated a landmark anniversary with a special reception in Parliament and a spectacular Ruby Ball fundraiser.
SafeNet’s many achievements over recent years were recognised at the reception in the House of Commons, hosted by Burnley MP Julie Cooper.
Part of The Calico Group, SafeNet is now in its 40th year and to mark this occasion, and to highlight the vital work they do, they attended a personal reception at the House of Commons hosted by MP Julie Cooper.
In its forty years, SafeNet has helped thousands of women and children to escape domestic violence from across the North West, a service that began in Burnley and now has bases in Preston, Lancaster, Rochdale and Blackpool.
Over the years, SafeNet has extended its services to all survivors, developing specialist support for ethnic minority communities, children and young people and LGBT.
In its 40th year, SafeNet has launched a service for male victims and survivors of domestic abuse with a dedicated safe house.
As well as celebrating SafeNet’s anniversary, the House of Commons reception was also an opportunity to celebrate the recent opening of Jane’s Place, the North’s first complex needs recovery refuge, named in memory of Jane Clough, who was killed by her ex-partner in 2010.
The event was attended by Jane’s parents and SafeNet Patrons, John and Penny Clough, who gave an impassioned speech about the importance of domestic abuse support.
Alongside staff from SafeNet and The Calico Group, attendance also included House of Lords Chief Whip Lord Taylor of Holbeach, and MPs Julie Cooper, Harriet Harman, Jess Phillips, Andrew Stephenson, Carolyn Harris and Keir Starmer.
After attending the reception, Keir Starmer called for mandatory funding for refuges following recent changes to funding for these services.
To celebrate the 40th Anniversary, staff from across The Calico Group and their families attended an impressive charity Ruby Ball fundraiser at the Dunkenhalgh Hotel and Spa.
Dressed in red, party goers enjoyed a three course meal, fun performances, and celebrated all of SafeNet’s remarkable achievements, all for a fantastic cause.
