COMMUNITY Volunteer of the Year, sponsored by A B Walker, funeral directors, has been awarded to a group that helps families impacted by domestic violence.
Fun With Mum is a monthly children’s activities group, where mums can enhance their connection with their children through play activities, while developing supportive friendships with other mums.
The group is just one of the projects offered by Finchampstead charity Kaleidoscopic UK.
Founder Vickie Robertson and her team received the award.
Vickie said: “It’s amazing to get this recognition, but the biggest reward is seeing that the person who nominated us is now thriving.”
Around 50 to 55 children and their mums come to Fun With Mum sessions.
“It’s the highlight of my month,” said one of the team, “and the kids love it too.
“The first thing they say at the end of a session is: ‘when is the next one? Is it next week?’”
Vickie hopes that winning the award will help the charity reach more domestic abuse survivors.
“We want people to know that there is something out there for them, and ongoing support, no matter what kind of abuse they are experiencing,” she said.
“People often think they can only contact us if they are victims of physical abuse, but actually, emotional abuse is much more harmful – coercive control is a silent killer.”
Visitors to Kaleidoscopic UK, however, will find warmth, friendship and happiness, say the group.
“There’s definitely life after domestic abuse,” said Vickie, “and a lot of fun to be had at Fun With Mum.”
For information and support, visit: kaleidoscopic.uk
