THE BIRMINGHAM CRISIS CENTRE
EXECUTIVE REPORT 2006/2007
INTRODUCTION
The profile and reputation of the Birmingham Crisis Centre
as a professional caring safe haven is well established with all the
inter-agencies concerned in the wellbeing and security of the women and
children who are victims of Domestic Violence.
During the past year several government
incentives have been piloted and implemented to improve the lives of the many
victims whose numbers continue to rise. One of the incentives now in full operation is the MARAC (Multi-Agency Risk
Assessment Conference). The Birmingham
Crisis Centre plays an integral part in attending these monthly risk
assessments for victims and has been instrumental in identifying those victims
who are highly at risk of present and future abuse. Every City and District
throughout Great Britain
now has a MARAC body.
Last year the Birmingham Crisis Centre had 474 referrals
giving care and support to 139 victims of domestic violence and their 195 children
of all ages up to 16 years. Many referrals could not be accepted as they failed
to meet the Centre’s criteria. Referrals
are refused where the location of the centre would put the victim or her family
at risk, where domestic violence is not involved and where there is no recourse
to public benefits. In addition those referred to the centre may refuse to
attend, may return home or simply not appear at all.
A diverse range of ethnic victims
received support both from within the centre and from outside agencies. The
average stay and support at the centre is 4-6 months, but this is likely to increase
as local authorities find it more difficult to find suitable re-housing for
clients.
The Birmingham Crisis Centre has 23 operational
self-contained units which have had an 80.4% occupancy level, with funding still
only available for 22. The centre continues to provide a safe haven with
excellent support and care from qualified staff who receive ongoing training in
all areas concerned with domestic violence.
FINANCE
For the past year, members of the Board of
Trustees and Staff have battled with local authority agencies in respect of
funding for the centre. In particular, there are still significant arrears in
housing benefit owed to the centre. Supporting People continue to ignore the
fact that in comparison with other regional and national averages, the Birmingham Crisis Centre
is seriously under-funded for the services provided. The centre is due for a
review of its services and value for money and will endeavour to increase the
present service grading from C to A level. The centre has also recently been
awarded accreditation with the Fundraising Standards Board, which stands well
with the Investors in People Award, and Ofsted report.
Donations have increased in the past
year but mainstream funding is a serious concern for the future.
The Birmingham Crisis Centre would like to
express its appreciation and thanks to the ‘friends of the centre’ who continue
to give their interest and support, these particularly include;
The
Grantham Yorke Trust, Joan Lamb Trust, Workman Trust ,Bob and Barbara Marshall Trust,
The Rotary Club of Birmingham, J&S Douglas Trust, Tony Pillinger, Suzanne
Verdee, Slaters Foundation, Zurich Community Trust, and the Four Oaks Methodist
Church.
THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES
The Board of Trustees has had a very
busy year with its main concern being the smooth running of the charity and
centre. There have been some changes in the constitution of its members.
The present 11 members is a diverse
board of professionals ranging in age and expertise. John
Ankcorn has now stepped down as Chairman and Penny Sunderland,
a solicitor, has taken over the role. John remains a much valued Trustee. The Board
are fortunate to have City Council representatives Councillor Reg Corns, and
Councillor Ziaul Islam as appointees. Their work and interest is very much
appreciated. Matthew Hooper has recently joined the board and is a welcome
addition with his expertise in finance and banking.
FUTURE AIMS
The Birmingham Crisis Centre aims to improve
activities and facilities for the children at the centre. Voluntary
organizations are at present in the process of assisting in this regard.
The centre will continue to ensure that
our residents are given the best possible support and security to ensure a
future of safety and hope.
As part of
the training given to staff and support to residents, the centre aims to
promote the following for all victims of domestic violence.
‘BEAMS’
Be healthy
Enjoy and achieve
Achieve economic well being
Make a positive contribution
Stay safe !
Funding is a high priority at this time.
The centre aims to continue to press for increased funding and continue to
provide a much needed ongoing service.
CONCLUSION
The Board would like to express its thanks
and great appreciation to all individuals and organisations that have supported
the centre during the past year both financially and with donations of
furniture/equipment. The staff and new voluntary worker continue to ‘be there’
in a time of need.