This International Women’s Day......

You’re walking through a shopping centre. She was walking away from abuse.

From court.

From prison.

From fear, control, and isolation.

Leaving is brave. But it does not mean everything is suddenly stable.

Across London, Advance supports women and girls who have experienced domestic abuse or who are involved in the criminal justice system. Many are rebuilding their lives in the community, attending court hearings, meeting support workers, navigating housing and benefits systems, caring for children and trying to create a safer future.

Often, they are doing this with very limited resources.

-No money for travel to a vital appointment.

-No phone credit to stay in touch with support.

-No food in the cupboard at the end of the week.

-No basic essentials to help them feel steady and secure.

At these critical moments, small practical support can make the difference between moving forward and falling back into crisis.

That is why Advance has an Emergency Fund.

The fund provides immediate, practical essentials such as travel costs, phones to stay connected, food vouchers, toiletries, emergency clothing and small crisis grants. These are not luxuries. They are stabilising steps that allow women and girls to stay safe, remain engaged with support and continue rebuilding their lives.

This International Women’s Day 2026, through our Walking in Her Shoes exhibition, we are raising £3,000 for the Emergency Fund.

When a woman makes the courageous decision to choose safety, she should not have to navigate the next steps alone.

If this story resonates with you, please consider making a donation.

Don’t just walk in her shoes.

Help her keep walking.

Click here to see Advance's Walking in Her Shoes Exhibition.