Resolute Women’s Support Services in Barnsley has launched an urgent appeal to raise £20,000 to save The Lotus, its dedicated women’s support centre on Regent Street, which is at risk of closure due to financial pressures. 

The £20,000 appeal will help cover essential running costs, including rent, utilities, insurance and maintaining the centre, while the charity works towards more sustainable funding.

Founded in 2021 by domestic abuse survivor Deborah Jones, Resolute offers a compassionate, survivor-led approach to recovery where women can access ongoing support, connect with others and begin rebuilding their confidence and independence.

At The Lotus, services include confidential one-to-one support, counselling, trauma therapy, advocacy, peer groups and practical help with challenges such as housing and financial hardship.

After experiencing the gaps in support when she left an abusive relationship, Deborah has spent the last five years creating a service where women are believed, understood and supported without judgement.

However, a lack of unrestricted funding is now threatening the future of the centre and the services delivered from it.

Deborah said: “Having experienced domestic abuse myself, I know how difficult it can be to rebuild your life, particularly when you’re left navigating different services and systems alone. We’ve worked incredibly hard to create this space, and the thought of losing a place that helps women when they’re experiencing domestic abuse is heartbreaking.”

There is a feel-good way for local people to support the charity while taking time out for themselves. The Lotus offers holistic therapies for the public including massage, Reiki and reflexology.

The wellbeing services are an important income stream for the charity. A donation of £30 pays for one counselling session for a woman who needs it, with Resolute offering up to 12 free counselling sessions for the women it supports.

You can also support the charity through its on-site coffee shop, charity retail activities and volunteering opportunities.

So whether you book a treatment, enjoy a coffee, donate or simply share the appeal, your support could help keep this vital lifeline open.

Donations can be made through the official fundraising page or find out more about the charity at www.resolutesupport.uk