WOMEN interested in finding out about self-defence are invited to an event hosted by a rape and sexual abuse service.
Darlington and County Durham Rape and Sexual Abuse Counselling Centre (RSACC) is hosting the event on Friday to kick off its celebrations of International Women’s day on March 8.
The charity coffee morning, with women’s self-defence demonstrations, henna painting, tombola and bake sale, is being held at Darlington’s covered market between 11am and 1pm.
Read more: Darlington FC to wear yellow and blue to support Ukraine
Karen Leech, RSACC’s engagement and communications officer, said: “RSACC plays a vital role in the heart of the communities of Darlington and County Durham.
“But due to the confidential and sensitive nature of our work in supporting survivors of sexual violence, our work often goes unseen.
“However, with one in four women having experienced some form of sexual violence in their life, we know that the need for local specialist services - that only we can provide is essential - and sadly more in demand than ever before.
“We hope that whether you are a woman who just wants to support other women, or if you have been touched in someway by sexual violence - either as a survivor or as a friend or relative of a survivor - you’ll pop along to see and support us.”
A percentage of the coffee purchased at the market will go to the charity, which offers counselling and support services and helps victims as they navigate the criminal justice system.
Staff will be on hand to discuss the charity’s work, as well as volunteering and fundraising opportunities.
The self-defence demos are being led by Paul Tennet, a black belt Instructor in Filipino Martial Arts, Wing Chun Kung Fu and Praying Mantis Kung Fu.
The event is the first planned as part of International Women’s Day on March 8.
From March 8-15, The Big Give will be match funding any donations as part of its Women and Girls campaign.
Ms Leech added: “So that any money our supporters raise for us during that time will be doubled by them - which is fantastic.”
To find out more about RSACC visit its website www.RSACC-thecentre.org.uk.
The charity's confidential helpline is available on 0300 222 5730.
Read more: Trial for Extinction Rebellion activists after Darlington Amazon protest
Keep up to date with all the latest news on our website, or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
You can also follow our dedicated Darlington Facebook page for all the latest in the area by clicking here.
For all the top news updates from right across the region straight to your inbox, sign up to our newsletter here.
Have you got a story for us? Contact our newsdesk on newsdesk@nne.co.uk or contact 01325 505054
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here