LORD Bourne of Aberystwyth visited Southern Domestic Abuse Service last Friday to mark International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (also known as White Ribbon Day).

During his visit, he meet frontline workers, survivors of domestic abuse, and was shown around a refuge.

Lord Bourne heard directly from survivors about the importance of the services that they received from Southern Domestic Abuse Service and how they have been supported to move on and live their lives away from violence and abuse.

During his visit to a Southern Domestic Abuse Service refuge, he spent time with the women and children who live there.

Lord Bourne was appointed Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for the Wales Office on May 2015 and Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department for Communities and Local Government in July this year. He has been a member of the House of Lords since September 2013.

Delighted to have played host to Lord Bourne, Claire Lambon, chief executive of Southern Domestic Abuse Service, said: “We are very proud of the work we do and of those survivors who were able to share their personal journey with the minister.”

In response, Lord Bourne said: “Southern Domestic Abuse Services have a long history of providing a wide range of support for victims who need refuge after fleeing from their homes.

“We recently announced a £20m fund to support this type of vital work and I’d encourage organisations like this to make a bid, to ensure no victim is turned away from the essential support they need.”

Southern Domestic Abuse Service provides services to women, children, young people and men who have experienced or are experiencing domestic abuse.

Anyone needing help, advice or support should call 023 9248 0246 or e-mail [email protected].

Alternatively, visit southerndas.org.