2008-09-02 01:20:21 - A new initiative to provide support for victims of domestic violence and forced marriages has been launched in Birmingham. Throughcare Housing and Support is a charity project that provides accommodation and support for victims, and has already received backing from the Police Domestic Violence Unit, the Crown Prosecution Service as well as local and national government.

The launch of Throughcare Housing and Support will be marked by a glittering gala event, at Second City Suite in Birmingham, on Saturday the 12th of September 2008. Pop group Saqi Live will be performing, alongside the Nachda Sansar dance troupe.

The Throughcare initiative is the brainchild of successful local businesswoman Kelly Kaur, who herself experienced homelessness following a refusal to

take part in a forced marriage. Kelly is determined to ensure that those who face domestic abuse and forced marriages have access to a refuge where they will be given the physical and emotional support they need to recover from their experiences.

Kelly explains: 'By creating awareness and educating communities of both men and women of all ages in recognising domestic abuse in all its forms, we can arm people with the knowledge to prevent, recognise and seek the support, guidance and refuge they need. Throughcare Housing and Support helps victims to recover from their ordeal and find the emotional support they need to go on and make a valuable contribution to the society we share.'

She continues: 'It is completely unacceptable in this day and age for the continuation of ancient cultural practices that ignore the human rights of individuals. That's why we are working hard to lobby government to ensure that more will be done to raise awareness of the issues and to encourage action, at both local and national government level, to deter the perpetrators of social crimes.'

Further details about the event are available by calling Throughcare on 0121 554 3920 or by emailing throughcarehousing-support@hotmail.com.

About Throughcare Housing and Support

Throughcare Housing and Support is a charity focused on creating awareness amongst the community, providing support, education and housing to unaccompanied minors, victims of domestic abuse and forced marriage. We run a number of projects dealing with several social issues:

INDEPENDENT LIVING is aimed at educating and housing unaccompanied minors (asylum seeking children, refugees, young expectant mothers or young mothers with babies who need extra support, young people leaving care and young children and/or young adults).

The PRIDE project is intended to help and empower women and their children regain their confidence and independence after suffering domestic abuse at the hands of others.

LIFE project is focused on supporting men, women and children who are or fear they may become victims of forced marriage or honour based violence.

Further information about Throughcare Housing and Support is available at www.throughcare.com.

Notes for Editors

Interviews with Throughcare Housing and Support are available on request. If you would like to attend the event as a media visitor then please contact Junaid Bhatti on 07980 586 243.