Staff at Bassetlaw District Council have filled shoeboxes with gifts for women and their families who are victims of domestic violence that have to leave their homes during the festive season.

In the run up to Christmas, while most families are enjoying the season’s festivities, many women will flee a domestic violence relationship, unable to face further violence towards them and sometimes their children.

Women and children who leave behind their lives often leave with nothing more than what they stand up in. They will be supported with emotional and practical assistance to start rebuilding their lives by Nottinghamshire Women’s Aid.

Staff were simply asked to wrap a shoebox and fill it with presents, marking whether they’re suitable for children or adults.

Nicki said: “We weren’t asking for money - only a few items together in a shoe box which were as good as new or new.

“It really seemed to capture people’s imagination. We were aiming to fill 40 boxes but we’ve been quite overwhelmed with how generous people have been. As well as filling the shoeboxes, staff and Councillors have also donated additional toys, books and gifts.

“We hope they provide small comfort for people and show that Christmas can still be a joyful time, no matter how difficult personal circumstances may be.”

The boxes were handed to Nottinghamshire Women’s Aid on Monday 19th December at 11am by the Chairman, of the Council, Councillor David Challinor for distribution to the families for Christmas.

Mandy Green Head of Services at Nottinghamshire Women’s Aid said :

“Christmas is a time where most families come together to share gifts and have fun. It is a particularly difficult time for women, children and young people fleeing into refuge leaving possessions, pets, and loved ones behind. The kindness of the staff who have donated shoeboxes will help towards offering some normality in the life of women children and young people in refuge over the Christmas period.”

Leader, of the Council, Councillor Graham Oxby said:

“He was delighted that the Council staff have supported the initiative which I hope will bring some comfort to victims of domestic violence this time of the year”.