Hi all, 

As most of you know, Basis Yorkshire is a charity I volunteered and worked with for over 3 years while I lived in Leeds. This is a cause that means a huge amount to me and their work during COVID-19 to support sex workers to be safe means that they need donations more than ever to continue their services. 

I'll be getting a buzz cut to raise funds on Friday 8th May so they can provide much needed emergency provision to those hit hardest by COVID-19. 

The charity's work to support sex workers across the city is essential, providing emergency and long-term support to women who experience stigma, poverty and other barriers that prevent them from getting the support they need. Women who sex work are often overrepresented across other marginalised identities such as drug and alcohol use, mental health, LGBT+ and homelessness. Street sex workers are most likely to fall in the vulnerable, at-risk populations for COVID-19, and therefore many are forced to self-isolate. Being unable to work, many are experiencing additional financial hardships, pushing some further into debt and unable to put food on the table or pay their bills. 

See their website for more information: https://basisyorkshire.org.uk/corona-virus/

Here's how it's gonna work: 

1. I'm currently planning to get it cut on Friday 8th May in the afternoon. I will confirm the time and post a video link in due course for anyone who is interested in watching it live!

2. And the highest donor gets to choose any kind of hair style I get on the way down to a buzz cut.... so if you're up for laughs on Friday, you know what to do! 

COVID-19 has placed additional financial burdens on Basis. Your donation will make a difference by enabling the women they work with to access often life-saving virtual support, food parcels and support with utilities. Basis is often the sole lifeline of support for this group of women which includes emotional support, access to emergency accommodation and support to report domestic or sexual violence. 

I'd be really grateful if you can sponsor me to raise funds for Basis during this time. Any contributions, no matter how small, are much appreciated! If you can't afford to contribute, please do show your support in other ways by sharing this with your friends and family. 

Many thanks in advance - and look forward to seeing your faces on Friday afternoon, with drinks in hand!

Charlotte xx