8 October 2010
Andrew Mitchell MP has visited Star Support and Counselling, a local Sutton Coldfield charity, and voiced his support for their excellent work in helping the victims and survivors of domestic abuse in Sutton Coldfield. During the visit Mr Mitchell met with the charity’s Directors Angela Eyles and Brigida Varley to hear how they had secured a grant of £463,739 from the Big Lottery Fund in January of this year. Andrew accepted an invitation to visit Star Support and Counselling in order to see how the charity has grown since his last visit in 2007 and how the new funds will help support families of domestic abuse, by adding further counselling sessions and group work. Andrew Mitchell MP said, “Star Support and Counselling provides valuable help and advice to vulnerable women and men who may have nowhere else to turn. “I know that Brigida and Angela will be pleased to hear from anyone who can offer their time to help with the charity. It is a truly worthwhile cause.” Earlier this year after a meeting with Lynda Bellingham, the much-loved British actress and broadcaster agreed to be Patron of Star Support and Counselling. The charity continues to look for volunteers to help with other aspects to enhance their services. If anyone is interested in becoming a volunteer please contact Brigida or Angela on 0121 378 4700 or e-mail info@starsupport.org.uk. The picture shows (L-R) Angela Eyles, Andrew Mitchell MP and Brigida Varley. Star Support stands for: Support, Trust, Autonomy, Reflection, Self-Esteem, Unconditional, Positive, Power, Openness, Respect and Truth. It provides a free, confidential individual counselling service and access to support groups which help people to manage the challenges in coping with domestic violence.