Basildon: Smartphones Given To Abuse Victims

Victims of domestic abuse in South Essex are being given smartphones to help them stay safe.

27 phones have been donated to the Basildon Women's Aid by the Swan Foundation to combat social exclusion and to help victims get back on their feet.

The aim is to help the recipients of the phones safely keep in touch with family and friends, get access to advices and support from people like solicitors, schools and other services and also to help feel safe and secure in their own homes. 

One of the women who has already been given a phones says it is invaluable: "My ex-partner broke my phone so when I arrived at the refuge I didn't have any way of keeping in contact with my family. 

"I couldn't visit them as it was not safe so the phone the refuge loaned me has been a lifeline to me." 

Lyn Headley, CEO at Basildon Women's Aid, said that the phones would be a tremendous help for families escaping from an abusive home and will also have a great impact on our telephone costs allowing much sought after funds to be spent helping the families resident at the refuge. 

Pamela Brown of the Swan Foundation said: "Swan Foundation is acutely aware of the impact of domestic violence and the courage it takes to leave - we are delighted that we have been able to help though the distribution of the smart phones".