AGAINST a backdrop of austerity, Darlington’s women’s refuge is helping an increasing number of families escape abusive situations.

The recent AGM of Family Help Darlington revealed a struggle for funding that could threaten the future of the organisation as it approaches its 40th year.

Thousands have been supported by the charity since its inception in 1976 and Family Help is now looking for support in return.

In 2016, the organisation will embark upon a series of fundraising events to mark its 40th anniversary and raise vital funds needed to support its efforts.

The charity’s accounts reveal a reserve of just £33,138 – enough to sustain the running of Family Help for less than eight weeks, with its yearly running costs standing at £224,686.

In March, The Northern Echo reported almost 9,893 incidents of domestic violence in Darlington had taken place within four years, making it County Durham’s biggest hotspot for the crime.

In 2014/15, Family Help looked after 62 women and 67 children, a figure up from 2013/14’s 44 women and 62 children.

They were unable to accommodate a further 15 women and 18 children from the Darlington area.

For many of those affected, a safe haven is an essential part of rebuilding a life without violence.

The chairwoman of Family Help, Val Mitchell, was a victim of domestic abuse and sought shelter at the refuge some years ago.

She said: “Domestic abuse can happen to any one of us, it doesn’t matter where you live or work or what background you have or age you are, you can be a victim.

“I was, but with the help of a small charity with caring staff, I survived.

“More needs to be done to support victims and help perpetrators of domestic abuse and Family Help does a valuable job in difficult times.

“Every year is challenging for a charity during an economic downturn.

“People are under more pressure, there’s more impact on us and more victims seeking help and support.

“As an organisation, we want to be able to help as many people as possible and enable them to rebuild their lives.

“Family Help are part of this community and we will be celebrating 40 years in 2016.

“Help us to get out there that domestic abuse is wrong and that there’s help here.”

The charity offers accommodation, support and signposting for women and children.

For information or support, visit darlingtonrefuge.org.uk or call their helpline on 01325 364486.