There are hundreds of Children in the Midlands who are living in shelters or in low income housing. For the parents, especially women escaping domestic abuse, Christmas can be a very stressful time of year. Many have to leave their house with their children in a hurry, aren't able to take any of their possessions with them and without access to money. Wouldn't it be great to help these women overcome the pressure of wanting to be a good parent, providing a memorable Christmas for their children and making sure they feel safe...which is something they may be experiencing for the first time.

I believe all children deserve to feel like Santa still see's them. therefore I have dedicated my last three Christmas' to making sure this happens and would like to continue this tradition. Every year the people of Nottingham (and beyond) have shown their support for these families, raising over £1,000 in 2017, and I really hope that this continues for Christmas 2018.

Please donate as much as you can spare. We'd ideally like to spend at least £20 on each child, and that's where the target of £520 (for 26 children) has come from. Plus £60 towards other items to support the presents, such as batteries, wrapping, etc. Please donate by Friday 14th December to make sure we receive the money in time to buy the presents.

Best wishes, Gemma, plus the mum's and the staff from Midlands Women's Aid.

For more information about Midlands Women's Aid please visit facebook , twitter or visit their website .

- Catherine Saunders, CEO at Midlands Women’s Aid , Registered Charity Number: 1055578

STATISTICS

According to the NSPCC around 1 in 5 children have been exposed to domestic abuse, domestic abuse is a factor in over half of serious case reviews, and a third of children witnessing domestic violence also experienced another form of abuse. 130,000 children live in households with high-risk domestic abuse, and Children exposed to domestic violence are more likely to have behavioural and emotional problems.