Families affected by domestic abuse in Bath and North East Somerset will receive additional specialist support thanks to a £60,000 grant awarded to Southside by Somerset Freemasons.
The funding will help children and parents who have experienced domestic abuse to access ongoing support after an initial crisis, helping them deal with the lasting effects of trauma on their relationships, mental health, education and wellbeing.
Southside, a Bath-based charity that supports children, young people and families facing multiple challenges, will use the funding to provide specialist one-to-one support, therapeutic play, mentoring, counselling and access to community groups and creative activities.
The charity says the support will help children build confidence, improve self-esteem and develop stronger social skills, while helping parents strengthen relationships and connections with their children.
The funding comes at a time of growing demand for domestic abuse services in Bath and North East Somerset. During 2025/26, there were 2,353 recorded domestic abuse crimes across the area, an increase of 8% compared with the previous year. More than 1,400 of those cases involved young people.
Children who experience or witness domestic abuse can face long-term challenges affecting their emotional wellbeing, education and future relationships.
Somerset Freemasons representative Mike Greedy said, “We’re delighted to support Southside and the vital work they do for children and parents affected by domestic abuse.
“Seeing first-hand the care, compassion and specialist support provided by Penny and her team reinforced just how important these services are to families across Bath and North East Somerset. We hope this grant from the Freemasons’ Charity will help vulnerable children and adults recover from trauma, rebuild confidence and look forward to a safer and brighter future.”
Southside provides domestic abuse support, advocacy, counselling, coaching and family services across Bath and North East Somerset. The charity works with people affected by abuse, violence, neglect, poverty, homelessness and mental health challenges.
Families seeking support can find more information through Southside at south-side.org.uk/domestic-abuse-services/
