A group of women from Derby have set up a support group for sufferers of domestic violence.

The group, called The Daisy Chain, was set up by a group of volunteers who have previously been residents at Derwent Living's refuge in Derby.

The refuge, which is run by the Derby-based housing provider, offers accommodation and support to women and children who are fleeing domestic violence.

The aim of The Daisy Chain is to give women who are living at the refuge, or have used its services in the past, the opportunity to meet and support each other and to share their experiences. This is particularly important for women escaping abuse, who may have been unable to talk about their experiences following years of secrets and silence.

Lizzie Nugent, an outreach worker at the refuge said:"The Daisy Chain is there to support anyone who needs an escape. Some women may still be in an abusive relationship and just want to talk. Women who have fled abusive relationships understand that these women have spent years being told what to do, so they won't do that to the women who come along. 

"Women can come and talk, or just get pampered a little with a beauty treatment. It is a fantastic group and is empowering its members to do something positive for themselves."

Meetings are held each month at The Family Justice Centre in Derby city centre. The centre has all the specialist help a woman fleeing an abusive relationship needs to keep herself and her family safe. Volunteers running The Daisy Chain will also be supported by staff from Derwent Living's domestic violence service.

If you want to find out more about the Daisy Chain or the refuge or would like to attend one of the meetings, please call Derwent Living 01332 346 477 and ask for our domestic violence service.

For more information about Derwent Living, please visit their website here: www.derwentliving.com