Government grant for women fleeing sex industry

[Sandra Omar]

A Bristol charity working to help sex workers escape their plight has been awarded a £59,458 government grant.

One25 say the money will be used to maintain its drop-in service, which offers a safe place for women to women to eat a hot meal, seek advice, get involved in pottery, IT and writing and participate in therapy sessions.

Josie Hill, a one25 volunteer, said: "We're delighted to have been awarded this new funding as it will help to maintain a crucial component of the support we provide.

"The vast majority of the women we support suffer from chronic ill-health and malnourishment, and for many it is the only place where they can get a nutritious meal.

"It is a vital service for improving health and well-being of those we support, providing an opportunity for them to rebuild their self-esteem and change their lifestyles.

"We recently undertook a survey and found that the drop-in was voted our best service so we really are delighted with this news."

The grant was made from the Government's Hardship Fund, a £16.7 million programme available to front-line charitable organisations that are suffering financial hardship because of the recession.

The Hardship Fund is funded by Office of the Third Sector and managed by the Community Development Foundation (CDF).

One25 has been working for 14 years to ensure the safety of women who are abused and marginalised through involvement in sex work.

Its mission is to enable these women to break free from abuse and achieve their full potential, and to help them make healthy life choices and foster positive relationships with their families and communities. For more information please visit www.one25.org.uk

The CDF is the leading source of community development expertise that bridges the gaps between government, communities and the voluntary sector. Visit www.cdf.org.uk for more information.