The idea
A minibus will allow survivors and their families to explore our amazing beaches, parks and nature reserves, create special memories and new connections. The women and children in our refuges have become increasingly isolated during the pandemic; cut off from the wider community, with limited access to our wonderful outdoor spaces, cultural attractions, community events, classes and activities.
Access to the outdoors is vital for our health and wellbeing, especially for those who have suffered abuse, trauma and isolation. We want to offer more opportunities for sport and leisure activities, visiting local attractions, learning about local history and nature, or just walks by the sea.
The bus will also enable more awareness raising and drop-in sessions, increase our presence in the community and create more opportunities to access domestic abuse support. We support hundreds of survivors and their families across Wearside, the bus will be used to deliver essential supplies if needed
What we'll deliver
- We will purchase a minibus.
- We will take 20+ survivors and their families on regular daytrips which would otherwise have been impossible.
- We will hold regular community drop-in sessions, raising awareness and supporting people with info and advice.
Why it's a great idea
Improved access to information and advice about domestic abuse, meaning we can reach people who need our support sooner.
Improved access to the outdoors, leisure activities, educational courses and events for the survivors and children we support.
Improved health and wellbeing for the survivors and children we support.
Increased volunteer opportunities.
Ability to support survivors moving into their own accommodation as few have their own transport and most are on a limited budget.
Improved access to events and activities will strengthen our service users' connections to their community and help them build new relationships with different groups of people.
Improved access to courses and classes; we aim to ‘upskill’ survivors in Sunderland, increasing their range of experiences, interests and qualifications – all of which enhance employment and volunteer opportunities.
Ability to deliver essential supplies to the families we support if they are shielding or isolating due to C-19.
Steps to get it done
- Purchase and customise a minibus by February 2021.
- First daytrip with women and children from our accommodation services at the end of February 2021.
- First community drop-in sessions in Spring 2021.
