Hammersmith & Fulham and Chelsea Football Club have teamed up to help survivors of domestic abuse experience elite women's football at one of the world's most famous stadiums.
The new partnership offers free tickets to matches at Stamford Bridge in Fulham. Last Friday (5 September), the first group to benefit attended Chelsea Women's season opener against Manchester City.
The 16 women and children are all supported by H&F refuges.
"Many of the women come from social backgrounds where men are the ones who watch or play football, while the women are expected to 'watch from the sidelines'," said H&F refuge manager Darya*, who joined the families in the stands.
It was so powerful to be in a famous stadium and watch the football live. Thanks a lot for this experience."
The scheme reflects H&F's comprehensive and bespoke support offer to survivors, designed to fit their individual needs. Cllr Rebecca Harvey, H&F Cabinet Member for Social Inclusion and Community Safety, said:
Supporting women to rebuild their lives means recognising that healing happens in many different ways. Sometimes it's through practical help, and sometimes it's through moments of joy like watching world-class female athletes compete at the highest level. We're delighted that Chelsea FC Women shares our commitment to supporting survivors of violence against women and girls."
Home advantage
Our women's refuges offer safe, temporary accommodation for those fleeing domestic violence and abuse. It is a vital lifeline and a chance for them to rebuild their lives with emotional and practical support.
The work builds on H&F's pioneering Angelou partnership, which has provided vital support to local women and girls for more than a decade. Last year alone, we supported 724 women and children.
This year, we've invested an additional £250,000 to continue our vital work to end violence against women and girls.
It's one of the ways in which we're making H&F stronger, safer and kinder.
Help is available
If you're experiencing abuse, support is available right now.
In an emergency, always call 999.
Get help from the Angelou partnership:
- Call 0800 059 0108 for domestic abuse support (Monday to Friday 10am to 6pm, Thursday 8am to 9pm)
- Call 0808 801 0660 for sexual violence support (Monday to Friday 10am to 4pm, Wednesdays 6pm to 9pm)
- Email angelou@advancecharity.org.uk or advice@wgn.org.uk
For more information visit our Violence against Women and Girls support page.
*Name has been changed to protect privacy
