We're delighted to be holding the second edition of the DarLon Cup charity football tournament. For those that don't know, the tournament is contended between 2 teams from DEC, and HMT Royals, the London-based HMT football team, and raises funds for local Darlington charities. Last year saw £1000 raised for Darlington Assistance for Refugees.

This year we are raising funds for Family Help Darlington. Established in 1976, Family Help Darlington CIO (registered charity in England and Wales No. 1150798) offers specialist domestic abuse support for women and women with children fleeing domestic abuse. Family Help Darlington CIO is an independent charity, home to Darlington’s only women’s refuge – one of the longest-standing refuges in the UK.

Family Help, provide safe, temporary accommodation for those that need it in our purpose-built refuge. Every year, they accommodate around 60 women and 100 children, providing them with a safe, welcoming home and a supportive team who encourage clients' progress towards positive and safe outcomes free from domestic abuse.

They also operate a confidential helpline for any person affected by domestic abuse, either directly or indirectly. Tel: 01325 364486 – Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm.