A ground-breaking south Essex drop-in centre for domestic violence is facing a funding crisis due to overwhelming demand.

The Dove Project was set up in 1997 with a three-year grant from the National Lottery. Assessors from the Charities Board will be visiting the West Road scheme thiis week to consider a continuance grant.

The facility was felt necessary for the area as Southend has the highest rate of domestic violence in Essex. Since it opened, the project has helped hundreds of women face up to abuse suffered in their home.

Co-ordinator Julie Dennis said the high demand for the service had led to additional expenditure on training extra volunteers, more staff, and redecoration of rooms necessary because of the number of people using the premises.

She has many letters of thanks from women who have used the service.

Ms Dennis explained: "We knew there would be a demand for such a drop-in service in Westcliff, but since we started we have been overwhelmed by the sheer numbers of women seeking help. As well as people dropping in we have had a large number of referrals coming via statutory and voluntary agencies throughout the area.

"The fact is that we are the only project in Essex offering a range of services all under one roof such as counselling, information, legal advice, support with children, education and awareness training, all totally dedicated to women and their children who have experienced domestic violence and abuse."

Sheran Bolton, deputy and fundraising manager of Southend Women's Aid, said that due to the success, they hoped that the lottery would continue to fund the Dove Project.

She said: "We have overspent due to the enormous demand so we would appreciate any donations that could be made by local businesses, organisations or individuals. We would also welcome letters of support which would back up our bid for more cash."

Cheques made payable to the Dove Project can be sent to 4 West Road, Westcliff, Essex SS0 9DA, telephone 01702 302333.

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