The Citizen has this year launched its Tins and Toys appeal to make a difference to families suffering from domestic abuse in the Fylde.

This week the service manager of Fylde Coast Women's Aid gives an insight into the work done by the organisation.

Fylde Coast Women's Aid (FCWA) is an independent voluntary organisation and has been in existence since June 1991, providing responsive and holistic services to support women and children who have or are experiencing domestic abuse in the Fylde, Wyre and Blackpool area.

The organisation evolved from the commitment of local female volunteers who had concerns that there was no support available and prides itself on its grass roots beginning.

Since 1991 our services have expanded and developed to include two refuges, telephone helpline, outreach support, counselling and children's services, training, project work, information and advice amongst others.

The process of leaving an abusive partner may take many months, or even years, and it may involve leaving and returning several times. Our organisation, through its outreach and floating service will continue to support these women until the violence stops.

This year alone, 2,642 women have accessed FCWA for support. The 2,642 adults who access support have an estimated 1,700 children and young people attached to them.

Every minute police in the UK receive a domestic assistance call. But these incidents are just the tip of the iceberg, as it is estimated that only 35 per cent of domestic violence incidents are reported.

Even more shockingly 3,381 incidences of domestic violence were reported in Blackpool in 2006 and in 2004 1,293 incidents of abuse were reported in Wyre.

These women and children are living with or have endured untold pain and distress at the hands of the perpetrators.

FCWA aims through its work in the community and in refuge to empower women and children to live their lives free from this abuse.

The Citizen is collecting new toys and essential goods for Fylde Coast Women's Aid, which operates two refuges covering the boroughs of Blackpool, Fylde and Wyre and offer support to hundreds of other women and families. All we ask is that gifts are new and unwrapped, and tins and unperishable foods are within their sell-by date. Toiletries for the mothers would also be appreciated, as would nappies and items for babies. Readers wishing to make a donation can call in to our offices at 13-13A, Clifton Street, Blackpool, during office hours.