Devastating news arrives this afternoon that Wight DASH, the Isle of Wight’s domestic abuse charity, will cease operations permanently at the end of September 2023.
The renowned WOW! Women’s Centre in Newport is also included in this closure.
After 32 long years of dedicated service, primarily to women and children, the charity finds itself compelled to close its doors due to a lack of funding in these trying economic times.
A pillar of support
Wight DASH, cherished by the community, has been a beacon of hope for the less fortunate on the Isle of Wight. It has consistently been there for those in need, particularly women and children.
It provided them with support, assistance, and, more importantly, a safe haven. The charity’s cease of operations marks a significant loss for the Island, a gap in services that will not be easily filled.
Gwinnett: An awful lot of experience will be lost
Fiona Gwinnett explained,
“The refuge and other current domestic violence services contract was awarded to You Trust in 2018. WightDASH moved towards trauma recovery, including longer term support after domestic abuse and to multiple disadvantage issues.
“At the point the contract was awarded elsewhere we became almost entirely reliant on trusts and foundations. We had a women-only homeless prevention contract with IWC, but it was not renewed in April this year due to their budget deficit.
“We have made it work for as long as we possibly could. Five of the team each have 20 years service with the charity, another, nine years. An awful lot of experience will be lost.
“Every charity has to be sustainable – we could no longer make it happen.”
Tributes from supporters
Over the years, Wight DASH has received support and commendation from various personalities who recognised the essential role it played in the Island’s community.
Robert Thompson, acclaimed chef and staunch supporter of Wight DASH, previously expressed his affinity for the Island, citing it as a place that evoked feelings of happiness, inspiration, and security. He also highlighted the fundamental role of Wight DASH, underscoring its significance in aiding women and children who weren’t as fortunate as many others. Thompson has consistently backed the charity and urged others to do the same.
Voices in solidarity
Rob da Bank, the founder of Bestival and celebrated DJ, has also offered strong support for Wight DASH in the past.
He highlighted the charity’s role in providing a safe space for women on the Island. According to him, no one should have to endure any form of abuse regardless of their circumstances, and he praised Wight DASH for providing a refuge. His plea to the public has always been clear: support the charity in any way you can.
Vital lifeline
Kim Murray, a GB Athlete, has likewise shown her steadfast support for Wight DASH. She has previously expressed her pride in supporting the charity, recognising its invaluable service to the community.
According to Murray, without Wight DASH, many women would have nowhere to go, no one to turn to for essential assistance. She emphasized the transformative power of their programmes as a crucial step towards recovery and change for the most vulnerable. For some, Murray acknowledged, the charity is more than a supportive service – it is a lifeline.
Challenging economic climate
As the Island prepares to bid farewell to Wight DASH, one cannot help but remember the significant role the charity played in the community.
Its impending closure serves as a stark reminder of the realities many charities face in today’s challenging economic climate. Despite the impending closure, the legacy of Wight DASH will undoubtedly live on, as will the hope that other initiatives will rise to continue its essential work.
Article edit
5.15pm 13th Jul 2023 – Additional comment from FG added
Image: fotografierende under CC BY 2.0
